Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been tasked with developing an airport in Magoodhoo, Faafu Atoll, within two years.
The agreement was signed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTCC Adam Azim and Director General at the Ministry of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Shaana Farooq. The planning ministry stated that MTCC has been tasked with completing the development of Magoodhoo Airport within 18 months at a cost of USD15 million.
MTCC is tasked with developing the domestic airport under a design and build policy. As per the agreement, the state-owned company will develop the airport with a 1,500m long and 30m wide runway along with a taxiway, apron, fire pad, fire station, passenger terminal, and control tower. Other works include installing fences, gateways, security checkpoints, as well as navigational and meteorological equipment, and ground handling equipment.
MTCC also reclaimed land for the development of Magoodhoo Airport. The company reclaimed 48 hectares of land, which includes 30.8 hectares for the development of the airport and an additional 17 hectares for other purposes.
Faafu Atoll is one of the few atolls without domestic airports. The atoll consists of 19 islands, out of which five are inhabited, and has one resort with five more under development. The development of Magoodhoo Airport is expected to have a significant positive economic impact on the region.