Managing Director of Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) Ahmed Mubeen has announced that concrete works on the buildings under the Hanimaadhoo Airport Development project are nearing completion, with preparations underway to begin finishing works. Once completed, Hanimaadhoo Airport will have the capacity to handle 1.3 million tourists annually.
Mubeen highlighted that the project is progressing according to the timeline, with most work on the new runway already completed. The concrete work for the terminal building has also been finalised, and finishing works are set to begin shortly, he added.
Furthermore, he said the project, initially planned for completion by March 2025, has been rescheduled for July 2025 due to various reasons.
The upgraded airport is expected to alleviate congestion at Velana International Airport (VIA), offering direct flights to Hanimaadhoo from countries such as India and Sri Lanka. Mubeen noted that airlines operating to Hanimaadhoo would provide a more cost-effective option for travelers.
While the government plans to transfer the management of Hanimaadhoo Airport to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), RACL is working in consultation with MACL to oversee the development.
The project, launched in January 2023, is being executed by JMC Projects, India. Alongside the runway and terminal, construction includes a utility building, fuel farm, and airport jetty.
Under the second phase of development, a seaplane terminal is also planned for Hanimaadhoo Airport.