Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Aishath Nahula has revealed the government plans to commence the development of three new airports in the atolls next year.
In an exclusive interview given to PSM News on the occasion of the two-year anniversary of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s administration, Transport Minister Nahula said the government’s policy on transportation is to ensure every island in the Maldives has access to an airport within a 30-minute radius. The minister said additional airport development projects have been planned for 2021 in order to fulfill the pledge. However, she noted there are difficulties in fulfilling the pledge due to the geographical formation of some islands.
Elaborating on the airport development projects planned for next year, Transport Minister revealed the government plans to begin the development of airports in Muli in Meemu Atoll, Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll and Bileiyfahi in Shaviyani Atoll next year. She also revealed the ongoing development of Madivaru Airport in Lhaviyani Atoll is expected to be completed next year.
The transport minister further noted the development of Hoarafushi Airport is reaching completion. She said the test flight in Hoarafushi Airport is expected to land on November 16, while the airport is expected to be officially inaugurated the next day.