The government has selected Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo as the site for Laamu Atoll’s second airport, following earlier discussions over where the project should be developed.
The airport is part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s presidential pledges. While the administration had previously announced plans to develop a second airport in Laamu Atoll, the specific island had not been confirmed until now.
Several islands in the atoll had sought to host the airport. Proposals had been submitted for locations near Maavah and Mendhoo, while the government had said the final decision would take into account long-term economic considerations and the potential for tourism development.
The Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development confirmed the selection of Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo in a video released on Thursday. The island is located in northern Laamu Atoll and is among the larger islands in the Maldives by land area.
According to the ministry, Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo has the land capacity to support population and development planning. The ministry also said the airport could create opportunities linked to tourism in nearby islands, although further details on the project timeline, cost and implementation model have not yet been announced.
At present, Kadhdhoo Airport is the only airport in Laamu Atoll. Travel from Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo to Kadhdhoo currently takes around 40 minutes. The ministry said the proposed airport would also improve access for residents of Dhanbidhoo and Maabaidhoo.
