Completion of Maafaru airport commemorated with landing of Code E aircraft

A Maldivian A330 flight landed in N. Maafaru International Airport on Tuesday to commemorate the completion of the airport’s runway capable of accommodating Code E aircrafts.

The airport was developed in two phases with funding from Abdu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADF). A ceremony was held at the airport on Tuesday to commemorate the completion of the second phase of the project. The second phase of the project saw an additional 650 meters added to the original runway, enabling the airport to accommodate Code E aircrafts such as Boeing 787s and 777s and A330s.

Speaking during the ceremony, Infrastructure Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib described Maafaru Airport as one of the symbols showcasing the close ties between Maldives and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“I take this opportunity to sincerely thank the president of United Arab Emirates and the ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahya, the UAE government and its people on behalf of the Maldivian government and its people for funding the development of Maafaru International Airport which will serve as a blood vessel in the development of this region,” he said.

Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, who also spoke at the ceremony, extended gratitude to the government of UAE and ADF for the assistance rendered in implementing the project.

ADF’s Director General Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi described the project as a catalyst for elevating development to new heights and reaffirmed ADF’s dedication to close collaboration with the Maldives.

Meanwhile, Maldivian’s Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas, shared that Maafaru Airport has handled over 200,000 passengers to date, including domestic, international, and private jet travelers.

He added that further airport expansion efforts are in progress, including plans to upgrade the terminal, establish modern lounges, and build a city hotel for flight crews.

The development of Maafaru Airport began in 2018, with ADF contributing USD 49 million for the first phase. Completed and made operational in 2019, this phase included the construction of a 2,220-meter runway, a passenger terminal, a VIP terminal, and various other facilities.

The runway expansion to accommodate Code E aircraft began on December 8, 2022, with ADF contributing USD 27 million for the project. The expansion extended the runway by 650 meters and was completed in December of last year.

Eight resorts are in operation at Noonu Atoll. The development of Maafaru Airport is expected to increase tourist arrivals to the resorts.