Establishing domestic airports within Maldives is the most important project embarked by the government to enhance the transport mechanism in the country. In this regard, the government contracted the projects to establish airports in Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Funadhoo in Shaviyani Atoll and Maavaarulu in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
MTCC reclaimed a total of 16 hectares to develop Kulhudhuffushi Airport with 6 hectares from land and 9 hectares from the mangrove area of the island. A 1,200 metre long runway, along with a taxi way and an apron will be developed, as part of the project. Initially, Funadhoo Airport was to be developed by reclaiming 21 hectares of land, however, MTCC reclaimed an area of 40 hectares for the project. The airports in Funadhoo and Maavaarulu will be developed with a 1,200 metre runway, according to MTCC.
Speaking with PSM News regarding the progress of the airport development projects conducted by MTCC, CEO Ibrahim Ziyath said the development of the three airports are progressing at an acceptable pace. MTCC is now tarring the runways of the airports under development in Kulhudhuffushi and Funadhoo, said the CEO, adding the runways will be ready to conduct test flights by mid-September. Moreover, Ziyath assured to complete the project within the given schedule, adding the full capacity of MTCC is utilised to complete the projects.
In addition to the three airports contracted to MTCC, the government has also commenced projects to develop airports in Maafinolhu in Haa Alifu Atoll, Maafaru in Noonu Atoll, Fainu in Raa Atoll and Faresmaathodaa in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.