The concept designs and architectural plans for the proposed new airports have been finalised, and the administration is actively seeking investors to support these development projects, according to Ahmed Mubeen, Managing Director of Regional Airports Company Ltd. (RACL).
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration has announced plans to develop 20 additional airports across the country, incorporating both new and ongoing projects. During his visits to the outer atolls, President Dr Muizzu has committed to the establishment of additional airports on select islands.
In an interview with the 'Raajje Miadhu' programme on PSM News, Ahmed Mubeen disclosed that efforts to secure financing for ongoing airport development projects and to complete further developmental work on established airports are currently underway. The concept design work for the newly proposed airports has been finalised, he revealed.
Among the projects with finalised concept designs is the proposed airport in Mathiveri, Alifu Alifu Atoll, which was pledged by President Dr Muizzu. Funding and investors have been secured for some proposed airport development projects, according to Mubeen, and RACL is currently in the process of sharing the necessary paperwork and relevant documents with the government's Economic Council.
"The administration will subsequently determine the direction of the airport projects and select the appropriate parties to award the projects to. The design work and necessary funding have been secured," said Mubeen.
Mubeen added that RACL is actively seeking methods to boost economic activities on islands where airports are proposed. RACL is collaborating with the local councils of these islands and has resolved to develop a comprehensive master plan to achieve this, he said.
Presently, there are 19 operational airports across the country, comprising five international airports and 14 domestic airports. Development work is actively progressing on four domestic airports located in Muli, Meemu Atoll; Magoodhoo, Faafu Atoll; Alifushi, Raa Atoll; and Makunudhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll. Among these, the development of the airport in Muli is nearing completion, with RACL preparing to conduct test flights in March.