Island Aviation Services, the operator of Maldivian, is seeking buyers for three De Havilland Canada DHC-8-300 turboprops, identified as MSN 491, 503 and 582. The aircraft are being offered through an expression-of-interest process published in the Maldives government gazette, with registrations due by 7 September at 23:59 Maldives time.
The notice targets qualified and experienced parties, indicating that the carrier is using a structured disposal process before considering proposals. The move points to a possible reshaping of Maldivian’s turboprop fleet, while also creating an opportunity for aircraft trading firms, lessors and parts specialists active in the regional used-aircraft market.
Dash 8-300 aircraft remain relevant to short-haul island and regional networks, where their performance and seat capacity suit thinner routes. A parallel trade report had already indicated interest in selling the Q300 fleet, aligning with the official gazette notice and the specific airframes now identified for disposal.