The development of Maafaru International Airport continues to strengthen Maldives’ tourism sector and create new economic opportunities for its people, the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed has said.
The Maafaru International Airport, popular for private jet handling, welcomed its first Boeing 777 aircraft on Tuesday.
Celebrating the landmark occasion, Minister Saeed in a post in X said the milestone for the airport marks an important step for the country’s national aviation infrastructure and enhances its capability to welcome luxury travelers.
“The development of Maafaru Airport continues to strengthen our tourism sector and create new economic opportunities for the Maldivians,” he said.
The Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen echoed similar sentiments in a post on X, hailing the landing of the first wide-body flight at Maafaru Airport to test readiness for B777 operations as a “remarkable” milestone for Maldives’ aviation sector.
According to Minister Ameen, the second phase of the Maafaru International Airport Development Project has now been completed—the runway has been extended to 2.8 km while taxiways along with the apron have been widened.
“Maafaru Airport is now ready to handle wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350,” he said.
Inaugurated in 2019, the Maafaru International Airport has been functioning as an international airport since July 1, 2020. The airport has gained popularity among private jets, serving tourists travelling to luxury resorts in Noonu, Raa, and Baa Atolls.
The airport is fully equipped to accommodate international flights, including the Airbus A320, the Boeing 737 and Boeing 777 aircrafts.
Island Aviation Services Limited (IAS) meanwhile has sought interested developers for the Maafaru International Airport terminal extension project.
IASL plans to extend the airport terminal by 900 square meters over two storeys equipped with VIP area, lounges and other facilities.