Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has received the Expression of Interest (EOI) for the reclamation of land in three islands for the development of new airports.
Ministry of Finance opened bids for the reclamation of land for the airport in Makunudhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Bileffahi in Shaviyani Atoll, Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll, and Vilufushi in Thaa Atoll. The planning ministry stated that three companies have submitted bids for the reclamation of land for three of four islands. The evaluation of the EOI received and the selection of a suitable company are being conducted in collaboration with the finance ministry and the planning ministry. EOI can only be submitted by a limited number of companies as the project was opened for restricted tendering.
The planning ministry said that the fieldwork for airport development will begin once the land is reclaimed. The government decided to develop the new airports in the areas where air transport is most needed. As such, the government is currently working on eight airports, including the four airports opened for tender.
The development of the Faresmaathoda Airport in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll has reached the final stages and is set to be put into operation. A test flight to the airport is scheduled to take place in February. In addition, the development of the terminal, fire building, and runway of the Muli Airport in Meemu Atoll is currently underway and expected to be completed within the next three months. The development of Magoodhoo Airport in Faafu Atoll and Alifushi Airport in Raa Atoll is also underway. In addition, the government has also begun the redevelopment and modernisation of Hanimaadhoo International Airport in Haa Dhaalu Atoll.