Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Aishath Nahula has stated the Maldivian aviation industry will make significant progress in recovery and rebuilding efforts during 2021.
In a statement released on the occasion of International Civil Aviation Day, Transport Minister Nahula said the Maldivian aviation industry has been providing important national services, even amidst the challenges and difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, the minister noted essential items such as food and medicine were brought by the national airline, Maldivian, when borders were closed and the country was locked down due to COVID-19. She also expressed pride that the outbreak has been controlled even after borders were reopened and airlines began operating once again.
The transport minister stated the recovery phase of the Maldivian aviation industry is well underway, despite the challenges. As such, she noted plans are being implemented to broaden the operations of local airlines and to increase the number of local carriers that will operate international flights.
Describing 2021 as the recovery and rebuilding year for the aviation industry, the minister said employment opportunities will increase once operations are broadened in accordance to the recovery plan. She also pledged to resolve the difficulties faced by students of the aviation sector, and to improve their job prospects.
Concluding her remarks, Minister Nahula said the administration will work with renewed determination to revive and rebuild the aviation industry of the Maldives.