The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has concluded land reclamation for the Nilandhoo domestic airport project in Faafu Atoll. The completion of this phase marks the addition of 45.6 hectares to the island’s geographical area, according to a company statement.
The project was formally contracted by the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure on 27 March 2024. While dredging and sand-filling operations are complete, total infrastructure works stand at 74 percent. Current site operations have shifted to coastal protection, involving the installation of a 2,098-metre rock boulder revetment and a 1,400-metre geobag revetment to secure the reclaimed land.
This development is intended to resolve a regional infrastructure deficit; Faafu Atoll is one of the final administrative divisions in the country without a dedicated airfield. The facility is part of a national programme by the current administration to establish 12 regional airports to improve national connectivity.
During a site visit last year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated the airport would be developed to international specifications, featuring an 1,800-metre runway capable of accommodating private jets. The president described the project as a modern aviation hub designed to support the region’s technical requirements.
The airport is a component of a broader state strategy to develop Nilandhoo as one of seven primary 'Urban Centres' in the country. In addition to the aviation facility, the island is undergoing several infrastructure upgrades, including local harbour expansion and the installation of rock boulder revetments to mitigate coastal erosion.