Test flight has landed at Maafaru Airport, developed by the government, in Noonu Atoll.
The first flight to land at Maafaru Airport was a Dash-8, operated by national carrier, Maldivian. Minister of Tourism Moosa Zameer, parliamentarians and officials from the government arrived in Maafaru Airport on the 25-minute test flight.
Speaking to the media from Maafaru Airport, Tourism Minister Moosa Zameer said efforts are underway to conduct scheduled flights to Maafaru Airport in September. In addition, the tourism minister noted plans of the government to develop the airport to international standards.
The project is funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and is worth USD 60 million. Maafaru Airport will consist of a 2,200 metre runway capable to cater the largest aircraft in operation. In addition, an airport terminal, an air traffic control tower and modern airport facilities will be developed as part of the project, according to regional airports.