Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Aishath Nahula has stated four new airports will be constructed and opened this year.
Minister Nahula stated additional airports will be opened in the islands of Funadhoo, Maavaarulu, Madivaru and Hoarafushi by August, as the administration aims to expand aviation services across the country. She said under the new mandate, Ministry of National Planning and Infrastructure is overseeing the runway component at Faresmaathoda Airport and would be completed as scheduled.
The minister remarked Kulhudhufushi Airport is not built up to the required standard and revealed plans to upgrade the airport this year. She added upgrading and maintenance will also be conducted at Hanimaadhoo International Airport as part of the efforts of the administration to improve services at all airports this year.
Minister Nahula said there is a significant challenge to employ trained staff in airports, which is hindering efforts to open the newly built airports as planned.
The policy of the administration is to provide easy access by making it possible to reach an airport within 30 minutes across the country.