Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has reiterated that the government’s policy is to operate all international and domestic airports in the Maldives through Maldivian companies, amid reports suggesting foreign involvement in airport operations.
The remarks follow a 31 December report by The Hindu claiming that the Maldivian government had requested an Indian entity to operate Hanimaadhoo International Airport after its inauguration. On Friday, Minister Ameen said in a post on X that all airports in the Maldives are operated by Maldivian companies approved by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The minister stated that no foreign party or country would be handed the operation of any airport in the Maldives, reaffirming that airport management would remain under local entities. He added that the policy applies to both international and domestic airports across the country.
Hanimaadhoo International Airport was officially opened on 9 November 2019 and has since undergone significant development. The airport’s new terminal is capable of handling Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft, while the apron can accommodate nine aircraft simultaneously, including three Airbus jets and six ATR aircraft. The airport also features a 2,465-metre runway, an air traffic control tower, and a new cargo terminal.
The first commercial jet landed at Hanimaadhoo International Airport on 26 December, marking a milestone in its operational expansion. Speaking at the airport’s inauguration, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said the facility would support the development of the northern region, particularly in tourism, fisheries, agriculture, and social sectors.
The government has positioned the expansion of regional airports as a key part of its broader strategy to improve connectivity and promote balanced economic development across the Maldives.
