Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has unveiled plans to introduce seaplane services at Hanimaadhoo International Airport as part of efforts to diversify its services and enhance revenue potential. The initiative aims to establish the airport as a key aviation hub in the northern Maldives.
Speaking to the Parliament’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Committee, MACL Deputy Managing Director Mujthaba Latheef outlined ongoing efforts to integrate the Regional Airports Company into MACL. A share exchange agreement between the Privatisation and Corporatisation Board (PCB), Regional Airports, and MACL is set to be signed this week to facilitate the transition.
Mujthaba highlighted the critical role of seaplane services in ensuring the airport’s profitability. “We will establish a seaplane service very soon. The airport’s feasibility as an international hub significantly improves with such services,” he stated, adding that plans are underway for a dedicated seaplane terminal to accommodate the new operations.
Hanimaadhoo International Airport is currently undergoing an extensive USD 136.6 million development project aimed at transforming it into a major aviation hub. The new 2,465-metre runway, capable of handling aircraft with 250–300 passengers, was inaugurated in October 2024, with a 1,200-metre section of the runway operational earlier this year, replacing the old runway designed for smaller 150-seater planes.
The development is expected to conclude by February 2025, positioning the airport to handle 1.3 million passengers annually. This growth is anticipated to drive economic opportunities and strengthen tourism in the northern Maldives, particularly in the Greater Thiladhunmathi region.
As one of the largest regional investments in the Maldives, Hanimaadhoo International Airport is set to become a vital hub for international and domestic aviation. The addition of seaplane services will further enhance connectivity, opening up new economic opportunities and reinforcing the airport’s role in supporting the development of northern atolls.
