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Blackstone May Cash Out From This Tropical Island Paradise

  • Buyout firm weighs options for Trans Maldivian Airways
  • Seaplane operator may fetch at least $1 billion in sale

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Blackstone Group LP may cash out from the Maldives, the tropical island chain known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise seascapes.

The buyout firm is exploring options for seaplane operator Trans Maldivian Airways Pvt, including a possible sale, after receiving takeover interest in the company, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Blackstone is working with a financial adviser to gauge interest from potential suitors for Trans Maldivian, which carries visitors from the country’s international airport to their luxury resorts on other islands, the people said.