The Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two prominent UAE-based firms, aiming to develop a network of 100 vertiports and droneports across the Maldives. This ambitious project is set to support the operation of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, enhancing the nation’s air mobility and infrastructure.
The MoU, which signifies mutual interest from all involved parties, was signed with Dubai’s Capital Wings and Air Chateau DWC. RACL Managing Director Ahmed Mubeen highlighted that this agreement is an expression of interest in the project, which will be structured as a public-private partnership. He noted that both Dubai firms have a strong reputation in the aviation industry.
“We’ve only just expressed interest. After this, when proposal submission requests are made, we’ll submit with those details,” Mubeen stated. He also emphasised, “This unique opportunity positions us as an ideal partner for investors in the aviation sector. We are pleased to establish this understanding with globally recognised firms like Wings Capital Management and Air Chateau.”
Mubeen further disclosed RACL’s plans to expand its operations from the current eight airports in the Maldives to fifteen in the near future. This partnership is expected to play a crucial role in realising these expansion goals, aligning with the Maldives’ strategic vision to bolster its aviation infrastructure.
The MoU comes in response to a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) by the Maldives’ Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, aimed at enhancing helicopter services, including for tourism purposes, across the nation. RACL clarified that this MoU represents the initial phase of discussions, with all parties expressing interest in the Ministry’s call.
According to reports from Dubai, the collaboration, known as “Project Elevate Maldives,” will include the establishment of VVIP and high-net-worth individual (HNI) air taxi operations, as well as commercial cargo and passenger services using eVTOL aircraft. The project will also focus on advanced air mobility infrastructure throughout the Maldives, with the goal of connecting over 1,200 islands.
Local media outlet Mihaaru reported that the project will involve the development of 100 hybrid vertiports, each equipped with Touch Down and Lift-Off (TLOF) areas, Final Approach and Take-Off (FATO) zones, safety zones, terminal waiting halls, and necessary charging and fire-retardant infrastructure. Additionally, 500 droneports will be constructed to support cargo operations, facilitating first-, middle-, and last-mile logistics across the archipelago. These droneports will also be equipped with charging stations and fire-retardant systems.
Nipuna Wahalathanthrige, CEO of Wings Capital Management, and Dr. Samir Mohamed, Chairman of Air Chateau, expressed their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the immense potential it holds for the Maldives’ vibrant tourism sector. They emphasised that this development could offer a competitive advantage to the nation, further solidifying its position as a leader in innovative air mobility solutions.
As the Maldives continues to strengthen its standing as a premier tourist destination, the successful implementation of this project could significantly enhance its appeal by offering cutting-edge transportation options and improving connectivity across the islands. The partnership between RACL and these Dubai firms signals a forward-looking approach to the future of aviation in the Maldives, with the potential to greatly benefit the nation’s economy and infrastructure.
