President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has vowed to build at least 13 domestic airports. He made the remark while inaugurating the Hotelier Maldives General Manager (GM) Forum.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, President-elect Muizzu highlighted the importance of building domestic airports across the country for the development of the tourism industry. He said that his vision includes the expansion of the aviation industry and solving the challenges of travelling in the country.
The Maldives currently has 16 domestic airports but some of these airports receive few flights. During the presidential election, President-elect Muizzu said that the regional benefits from the domestic airports can only be derived after the development of tourism in the area. Therefore, he pledged to expand tourism in these regions.
Also during the GM Forum, President-elect Muizzu said that he will focus on opening the new Velana International Airport (VIA) for the peak tourism season next year and the development of a seaplane hub in the southern region with the aim to expand tourism in all parts of the country. He also said that he would expand the operations of the International Aviation Services Limited (IASL) and resume wide-body operations.
Furthermore, President-elect Muizzu said that his administration will expand the government's efforts to promote Maldivian tourism products and expand the role of Maldivian diplomatic missions in promoting tourism. He also noted that tourism has improved the livelihoods of many families and expressed hope that the development of tourism would benefit every Maldivian. He also vowed to ensure the health of tourism employees and a decent salary as well as giving them more time to spend with their families. In addition, he reiterated his commitment to introduce a special retirement scheme and social housing scheme for tourism employees.