MIAT - Mongolian Airlines (OM, Ulaanbaatar) is looking to purchase ten Airbus aircraft, road and transport minister Borkhuu Delgersaikhan told local media during an event on June 25, 2026. The move is part of a multipronged strategy to improve the country's air transport sector.

"As the national carrier, MIAT has decided to acquire ten aircraft. We are taking this step with confidence," Delgersaikhan said. He explained that the airline's heavy reliance on leased aircraft has driven up costs, with nine of its ten aircraft currently under lease.

"While we are transporting both international and domestic passengers, the high lease payments mean the airline is not generating sufficient returns," he added.

The aircraft will be acquired through long-term finance leases or other financing arrangements. Delgersaikhan said the ministry is in talks with two financial institutions, including the Trade and Development Bank of Mongolia, which is prepared to provide financing guarantees, as well as an undisclosed French party.

Describing the acquisition as "a very important milestone" for Mongolia, Delgersaikhan said the government intends to select an Airbus type best suited to MIAT's operational requirements.

MIAT last operated an Airbus aircraft in 2011 when it retired its sole A310-300 after 13 years of service. According to ch-aviation fleets data, the carrier currently operates one B737-8, three B737-800s, one B757-200(PCF), one B767-300ER, two B787-9s, and two CRJ700s.

MIAT, which did not indicate the plans during a recent interview with ch-aviation, did not respond to a request for comment.

By Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Published Date:2026-07-01