President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced that an airport will be developed in Beriyanfaru, Raa Atoll. He made the remark at the inauguration ceremony of the Gan International Airport (GIA) expansion project.
At the ceremony, President Solih said that the administration has made the strategic decision to develop an airport in Beriyanfaru as part of its ongoing endeavours to enhance air connectivity throughout the Maldives. He emphasised the importance of connecting all regions of the country through land, air, and sea for the prosperity of its citizens.
Raa Atoll currently consists of Ifuru Airport which was opened in 2015. However, President Solih began discussions to develop an airport in the southern part of Raa Atoll to address the concerns of residents over having to make long trips to the existing airport.
Furthermore, President Solih has said that three airports will finish development and four airports will begin development this year. He made the remark after inaugurating the domestic airport developed in Faresmaathoda, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, in March. He noted that airports are currently being developed in the north and south and the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) will complete the development of airports in Alifushi in Raa Atoll, Magoodhoo in Faafu Atoll, and Muli in Meemu Atoll this year. He added that the development of four more airports in Makunudhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Bilehfahi in Shaviyani Atoll, Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll, and Vilufushi in Thaa Atoll will begin this year.