Maldives like most Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face considerable challenges in aligning with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommended practices, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen lamented on Thursday.
Addressing the Ministerial segment of the ICAO Facilitation Conference being held in Doha, Minister Ameen emphasised the significant role of aviation for SIDS like the Maldives, pointing out it was pivotal to connect these geographically dispersed nations with the world.
The Minister listed limited human resource capacity, financial constraints, and geographical dispersion pose considerable challenges faced to SIDS in aligning with ICAO standards.
He shared the bold steps being taken by incumbent President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Administration to transform the country’s aviation sector, highlighting under the airport development master plan, the aim is to elevate Maldives’ entire aviation infrastructure.
The ultimate goal, according to the Minister, is to make every inhabited island in the country accessible to a domestic airport within a 30 minute radius.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to inclusive connectivity and regional development,” he added.
This conference offers a unique opportunity for States and aviation industry stakeholders to explore advancements in air transport facilitation. The Conference is designed to provide a platform for participants to collaborate on a global facilitation strategy that enables adaptation and responsiveness to the rapid developments in civil aviation. This event will focus on promoting collaboration, efficiency, and inclusivity in global air travel under the theme, "Facilitating the Future of Air Transport."