Addu International Airport (AIA) has revealed seaplane operations are set to resume in Addu City in November.
AIA, which operates Gan International Airport in Addu City, stated the agreement to resume seaplane operations in the airport will be signed with the national airline, Maldivian, on October 3. Managing Director of AIA, Qais Naseer said the seaplane operations are set to resume after a long hiatus, following the renovation of the seaplane terminal and the development of a new waiting lounge. He expressed hope the seaplane operations can be resumed in November. He noted the resumption of seaplane operations in Gan will help to connect Addu with the resorts in Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
AIA had signed a seaplane agreement with Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) in November 2016. The operations began with one seaplane which had the capacity of carrying 15 passengers. The operations were subsequently suspended due to logistical difficulties.
The managing director of AIA said the new agreement with Maldivian is being signed after the agreement with TMA was terminated upon discussions with the company.