President Solih: Three airports to be completed and made operational this year

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Wednesday night, stated that development of airports initiated by the current administration at M. Muli, F. Magoodhoo and R. Alifushi will be completed and made operational this year.

The three airport projects valued at millions were contracted to state-owned Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).

•         Alifushi Airport development project by reclamation of Alifushi lagoon – MVR 451 million
•         Magoodhoo Airport development project – MVR 231 million
•         Muli Airport development project – MVR 221 million

President Solih stated that the three airports will be completed and made operation this year during a special ceremony held at Wednesday night to inaugurate GDh. Faresmaathoda Airport.

The President stated that, as envisioned in his administration's air connectivity policy, the communities of every island in Huvadhoo Atoll, except for one, could now reach an airport within 20 minutes.

“Previous one-hour trips undertaken by Vaadhoo residents have been cut down to just 15 minutes. Fiyoari residents’ 50-minute trips have been cut down to 10 minutes. Rathafandhoo residents’ 45-minute trips have been cut down to 20 minutes,” he detailed.

He compared the trip Faresmaathoda residents would now have to undertake to access an airport to the small distance between their living rooms and kitchen.

Highlighting efforts underway to improve air connectivity within Maldives – President Solih said that N. Maafaru Airport’s operations will resume early next year after completion of renovation works. Meanwhile, the development of airports at HDh. Makunudhoo, Sh. Bilehfahi, B. Thulhaadhoo and Th. Vilufushi will commence this year.

Speaking further, President Solih said the inauguration of Faresmaathoda Airport would fuel new jobs and economic activities in the region, ensuring a bright and promising future.

Faresmaathodaa Airport is the fourth airport in Huvadhoo Atoll, with a 1,200-metre by 30-metre runway alongside other modern airport facilities. It can also accommodate flights at night.

Other airports in Huvadhoo Atoll are located in GDh, Kaadedhoo, GDh. Kooddoo and GDh. Maavarulu.