Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has commenced land reclamation in Vihafaru lagoon, South Miladhunmadulu Atoll, to develop a new domestic airport. The project involves reclaiming a total of 42 hectares of land, which will be raised to approximately 1.6 metres above sea level to support airport infrastructure.

Ads By Dhivehi Insurance Company

The commencement of reclamation was marked by a ceremony led by the Minister of Economic Development and Trade and MACL Managing Director, attended by cabinet ministers and senior government officials. The new airport is expected to enhance regional connectivity and support tourism, providing improved access for islands such as Hulhudhoo, Fodhdhoo, and Velidhoo, alongside the existing airport at Maafaru.

The project is expected to commence early this year and wrap up within one-and-a-half years to support the atoll’s vibrant tourism sector. The atoll, home to multiple luxury resorts, currently has a single airport, making this development a significant step in expanding transportation capacity. Detailed timelines for the construction phases beyond land reclamation have not yet been disclosed.