Maafaru International Airport has moved ahead with the next phase of its development following the inauguration of a new apron extension and the commencement of construction works on an expanded passenger terminal.
The milestone was marked at the airport in Noonu Atoll with the participation of representatives from Island Aviation Services Limited, project partners, contractors and invited guests, reflecting the multi-stakeholder effort behind the airport’s gradual transformation into a key international gateway in the northern Maldives.
The apron extension, now operational, is intended to improve the airport’s capacity to handle aircraft movements and ground operations more efficiently. The project was financed by Maldives Islamic Bank and constructed by Maldives Transport and Contracting Company. According to the operator, the expanded apron allows the airport to better accommodate private aviation activity while supporting scheduled commercial services.
Alongside the apron inauguration, groundwork has begun on a terminal building extension, following the signing of a construction agreement in November 2025. The expanded terminal is expected to increase passenger handling capacity and improve arrival and departure flows as international operations continue to grow.
Development at Maafaru International Airport has progressed in stages since the start of commercial operations in 2019. A major step was the extension of the runway to 2,850 metres, a project funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and inaugurated in July 2025. The longer runway allows the airport to handle larger aircraft, strengthening its role in international connectivity. The introduction of Jet A-1 refuelling services in 2023 further enhanced operational readiness for both private and commercial flights.
Strategically located in Noonu Atoll, the airport has increasingly positioned itself as a gateway for high end tourism, private aviation and regional development in the north. Its ongoing expansion aligns with broader efforts by the Government of Maldives to strengthen aviation infrastructure, diversify international entry points and encourage more balanced regional growth.
With continued investment and partnerships across financing and construction, Maafaru International Airport is expected to play a larger role in supporting national connectivity and longer-term economic activity in the years ahead.
