Air Mauritius: A Tender to Redefine Its Fleet Plan

Air Mauritius is taking a significant step in its recovery and international repositioning. The national carrier, along with its parent company Airport Holdings Limited (AHL), has issued an international tender for consultancy services to review and implement its fleet plan. The official document, referenced PROC/376/25/RN, was published on October 9, 2025.

The goals are twofold: to confirm that the current fleet plan is optimal for the coming years and to receive expert support in negotiations with Airbus, engine manufacturers, and financial backers.

Currently, Air Mauritius operates 12 aircraft, including 4 Airbus A350-900, 2 A330-900Neo, 2 A330-200 (on lease until 2026), and 4 ATR72, and is set to receive three new A350-900s by 2027.

Before proceeding further, the airline wants to ensure that its fleet composition meets its future needs in terms of capacity, flexibility, profitability, and resilience, while also aligning with the requirements of its current network of 13 destinations (including Paris, London, Delhi, Johannesburg, and Perth).

An International Call for Expertise

The specifications indicate that the consultancy must cover six main areas:

1. Comprehensive analysis of the operating and fleet plan;
2. Development of a negotiation strategy with aircraft and engine manufacturers, as well as leasing companies;
3. Comparative evaluation of received offers;
4. Preparation of negotiation plans at each critical stage;
5. Assistance during contractual discussions;
6. Identification of financial partners to support acquisitions.

AHL and Air Mauritius emphasize the urgency of the mission: the selected consultant must produce detailed reports and written recommendations within a tight timeframe, along with presentations to management and the board of directors.

A Transparent and Competitive Approach

The process aims to be transparent, competitive, and based on added value. Proposals will be evaluated based on their technical compliance, methodology, financial relevance, and team strength.

The submission deadline is set for October 19, 2025, exclusively by electronic means. Submissions must include a complete technical offer, a detailed financial proposal, and proof of similar experience within the aviation industry.

A Strict Ethical and Legal Framework

The document states that any attempt at undue influence or fraudulent maneuvering will result in immediate disqualification. AHL and Air Mauritius reaffirm their commitment to international standards regarding corruption, money laundering, and anti-competitive practices.

The tender is governed by the laws of the Republic of Mauritius, and Mauritian courts will have exclusive jurisdiction in case of disputes.

Towards a Strategic Turning Point

This initiative comes as the Mauritian flag carrier seeks to accelerate its modernization following the post-pandemic crisis, optimize its energy consumption, and explore new regional and intercontinental routes.

The fleet overhaul, a cornerstone of the recovery plan, could also determine the future business model of the airline, balancing selective expansion, strategic partnerships, and cost management.

In summary, this new tender marks a crucial transformation phase for Air Mauritius, which aims to combine controlled growth, operational sustainability, and long-term profitability, while reinforcing its status as a premier national carrier.