In a move set to reshape the country's aviation sector, the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has officially assumed control of nine domestic airports, following the government's decision to merge with the Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) last month.
This strategic takeover, a first of its kind, promises to strengthen provincial airport operations and reduce state costs.
Prior to the merger, MACL's portfolio was limited to the country’s main gateway, Velana International Airport (VIA). The newly integrated domestic airports are already undergoing a thorough assessment, with MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed spearheading the initiative. The MD, along with the company's executive and technical teams, has commenced site visits to inspect the condition of the newly acquired facilities.
Last week, a team was dispatched to Fuvahmulah airport to conduct the initial inspection. During the visit, they met with airport employees to discuss operational needs and future development plans with relevant stakeholders.
The government-mandated merger is part of a broader push to streamline state-owned enterprises. Officials project that consolidating RACL under MACL will result in significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
Beyond its expanded operational duties, MACL will also supervise the development of new aviation projects. The first of these is the airport development in Fainu, Raa Atoll which will now proceed under MACL's oversight. The government expects this new centralised approach to lead to more robust and cost-effective management of the nation's aviation infrastructure.