Ameen inaugurates Maldivian’s new seaplane terminal; two more aircraft to join fleet next year

The national airline Maldivian opened its newly modernised seaplane terminal on Tuesday.

The terminal was officially inaugurated by Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen at a ceremony attended by senior officials of Island Aviation Services.

Speaking at the opening, Island Aviation Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas said more than 1.2 million passengers have travelled through Maldivian’s seaplane terminal to date. He added that two new seaplanes will be added to the fleet next year, following an agreement signed in August.

Maldivian said the new terminal has been designed to reflect the natural beauty and culture of the Maldives, and offers a fully air-conditioned environment, a major upgrade from the previous terminal.

Special facilities at the new terminal include the “Huvandhumaa” lounge, two private lounges on the upper floor, a children’s play area, and a kiosk selling Maldivian-branded souvenirs and food. The terminal has seating capacity for 90 people indoors and 40 people outdoors.… pic.twitter.com/1XNNRSdHdy

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The terminal can accommodate 90 passengers indoors and 40 passengers outdoors. The two-storey building includes:

• the Huvandhumaa Lounge  

• two private lounges on the upper floor  

• a children’s play area  

• a kiosk selling Maldivian-branded souvenirs and food  

• a dedicated garden area  

• a viewing deck overlooking seaplanes and the waterway  

Environmental protection has been prioritised, with a plastic-bottle recycling system installed to prevent waste from entering the sea. Passenger transport vehicles at the terminal include BYD battery-powered vehicles. New staff-training guidelines have also been introduced, and a staff canteen has been opened.

Maldivian currently operates 11 Twin Otter seaplanes and provides seaplane services to four islands. The airline is working to expand its fleet with the addition of two more aircraft next year.