Maldives establishes new company to strengthen air traffic control

The Maldives government has established a separate company to strengthen air traffic control services in the country. The new company, Maldives National Air Traffic Service Pvt Ltd, will be responsible for all air traffic services in the Maldives, including air traffic control, air navigation services, and communication, navigation, and surveillance/air traffic management (CNS/ATM) systems.

Air traffic was previously managed by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL)’s Air Traffic Management Unit, Air Traffic Control Center, and Control Tower. However, with the establishment of the new company, all air traffic services will be transferred to Maldives National Air Traffic Service Pvt Ltd.

Experienced air traffic controller Mohammed Athuhar has been appointed as the company’s managing director.

A government spokesman said that the number of aircraft flying in the Maldives airspace has increased to an unprecedented level due to the increase in airports and seaplane operations. The number of simultaneous flights in Maldivian airspace has increased to 60 and 70 movements, he said.

The spokesman said that the establishment of a separate company for air traffic control was necessary to provide this service in a manner that would maintain safety and security as per the Chicago Convention.

The establishment of Maldives National Air Traffic Service Pvt Ltd is a positive development for the Maldives aviation industry. It will help to ensure that air traffic services in the Maldives are of the highest quality and that safety and security are maintained at all times.

Photo courtesy Velana International Airport