President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that his administration has formulated plans to develop tourism and air travel in Noonu Atoll. He made the remark at a campaign event held in Maafaru, Noonu Atoll.
Speaking at the campaign event, President Solih highlighted the efforts being made to further develop Maafaru International Airport. He also said that the administration is holding discussions to commence more projects, such as beginning direct flights from Europe.
Additionally, President Solih said that a company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been contracted to begin the development of resorts. He added that the administration has also held discussions with a royal family from Abu Dhabi and that he is confident that they are interested in making Maafaru a hub for their airline.
Furthermore, President Solih said that Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL) plans to establish its seaplane service in Noonu Atoll and that the service will be centered in Maafaru. He further said that the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry service will be connected to Noonu Atoll by the end of the year. He also pledged to reclaim more land in Maafaru, develop the roads, and establish a school laboratory.
Maafaru International Airport was opened for scheduled flights in 2020. The project is funded with a USD27 million grant from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD). The airport has a 2,200m long and a 40m wide runway and is designed to handle the largest aircraft in operation including the Airbus A380 super jumbo jets and the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been contracted to upgrade Maafaru Airport. The project includes expanding the current runway by 650m, expanding the strip, as well as reclaiming land, and building coastal protection structures.