The government of the Maldives attaches a great importance to improving the transportation system of Maldives. In this regard, the government has plans to develop domestic airports in all parts of the country, with multiple airports currently under development. In addition, several airport development projects have been successfully completed and are currently in operation.
While the government of Maldives plans to improve the transportation system of Maldives, efforts are also exerted to expand the national airline, Maldivian. Mentioning the positive improvements brought to the operation of the company since 2013, Minister of Economic Development Mohamed Saeed has revealed the current administration has developed Island Aviation Services Limited as an income generating company. The national airline operator was planned to be sold during the government of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), further noted the Minister. The minister also highlighted the positive improvements brought to the operation of the company since 2013.
However, as part of the efforts to develop Island Aviation, the government has enhanced the operation and the services provided by the company. In this regard, the airplane fleet of Island Aviation was increased from 7 to 16 and the services provided have been enhanced by establishing modern facilities. Moreover, Island Aviation is the only airline operated in Maldives, which operates three types of aircraft.
It operates seaplanes, jets and propeller flights, according to Island Aviation. In this regard, the fleet of Island Aviation comprises of 11 seaplanes, 10 dash-8 aircraft and 2 Airbuses. With the rapid development and the increase in its fleet, Island Aviation operates more than 100 flights per day to various domestic and international destinations. The national carrier operates to 11 airports in Maldives with other destinations being China, India, and Thailand, while more destinations are to be introduced later in the year.
With the job opportunities increased to 1,100 from 400 since 2013, Island aviation operates with 98% local employees. Meanwhile, in the past four years, the asset value of Island Aviation has increased to USD 130 million as a result of the rapid transformation of the company.