Middle Eastern carrier Emirates has indicated plans to return an Airbus A380 to leasing vehicle Doric Nimrod Air Three. The aircraft (A6-EEK) was originally delivered to the carrier in 2013 and was the subject of a leaseback with lessor Amedeo. Guernsey-based affiliate Doric Nimrod Air Three, which has four A380s on lease to Emirates, all delivered in 2013. The lease on A6-EEK – serial number 132 – is due to expire in August next year. Doric Nimrod Air Three states that Emirates has notified the entity that it will exercise its option to return the aircraft in “half life” condition, supplemented by a cash sum of $12m which will be additional to the normal compensation arrangements. It adds that this does not preclude the possibility of lease extension, sale or other options for the aircraft with Emirates or other parties. Doric Nimrod Air Three’s A380 portfolio also includes serial numbers 133, 134 and 136. Airbus figures indicate that Dubai-based Emirates still had 120 A380s in its fleet at the end of November last year.<br/>
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Indian Ocean operator Maldivian is seeking an Airbus A330-200, and has formally requested proposals for a dry-lease. Maldivian’s fleet of 22 aircraft primarily comprises turboprops – a mix of ATR 42s and 72s, and De Havilland Dash 8s – but it includes an Airbus A320, according to the proposal issued by Island Aviation Services. It states that Maldivian is “looking to further increase its international presence” through the introduction of long-haul routes. The airline is looking to obtain an A330 to operate nonstop flights from Male’s Velana airport. Its proposal lists a preference for Rolls-Royce Trent 700 or General Electric CF6 engines, and a maximum take-off weight of 230t or more, with 180min extended twin-engined operation capability. The carrier adds that the interior configuration should comprise at least 275 seats in two classes, with a minimum of 20 business seats, and feature an in-flight entertainment system. It also says the aircraft should be delivered from a C-check and preference will be given to lessors committing to providing spare or replacement engines at no additional cost. Maldivian aims to take delivery of the twinjet in Q2 this year, under a preferred five-year lease period.<br/>