Seven years, one dream: Mariyam Malaak becomes Maldives’ first female pilot cadet from cabin crew
When Mariyam Malaak steps into the cockpit of a Manta Air seaplane on 1 December 2025, she will be doing far more than beginning her first day as a First Officer. She will be closing a seven-year chapter of perseverance—one marked by setbacks, sacrifices, shifting continents, motherhood, and an unwavering belief in the dream she […]
Modernised Hanimaadhoo airport opens with new runway, terminal
HDh. Hanimaadhoo International Airport was officially inaugurated on Sunday following a major redevelopment project carried out under an Indian credit line. The project, valued at USD 136 million (MVR 2 billion), was funded through a line of credit from India’s Exim Bank and began in January 2023 under the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed […]
Chronicling the skies: Ahmed Mohamed’s definitive history of Maldivian aviation
For a nation of over a thousand islands scattered across the vast Indian Ocean, the story of the Maldives is inextricably linked to the story of its connection with the world. While the sea has been its lifeblood for centuries, it is the sky that has truly shaped its modern identity. The roar of a […]
President announces construction of new airport in Noonu Atoll
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that construction of a new domestic airport in N. Vihafaru will begin early next year. The announcement was made during his visit to Noonu Atoll. The President stated that the new airport is intended to address the needs of residents in islands such as Holhudhoo, Velidhoo, and Fodhdhoo, which […]
Manta Air says open to 100% dollar salaries again if conditions permit
Manta Air clarified on Tuesday that it was compelled by a legal change to alter its salary policy, with 50% of employees’ salaries now be paid in Maldivian Rufiyaa and the remaining 50% in US dollars. The airline previously paid all salaries fully in US dollars. According to a press statement issued by the airline on […]
President announces plans to expand terminal facilities at Maafaru airport
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that a terminal suitable for the new runway at N. Maafaru International Airport will be developed as part of the airport’s continued expansion. Speaking during an official visit to Noonu Atoll, President Muizzu stated that while the runway at Maafaru Airport has been developed to accommodate wide-body aircraft, a […]
Maafaru airport completes runway expansion, welcomes wide-body jets
The expansion of the runway at N. Maafaru International Airport has been completed, with a wide-body aircraft landing at the airport on Tuesday to mark the milestone. As part of the second phase of the Maafaru Airport Development Project, the runway was extended by 650 metres, increasing its total length to 2,850 metres. This upgrade […]
Air Arabia expands Maldives service with 2 daily flights
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator, has announced the expansion of its existing service between Sharjah and Maldives to twice daily non-stop flights starting October 27, 2025. The increase in frequency comes after a year from operating the service between Sharjah International Airport and Velana International […]
Maafaru airport welcomes first wide-body aircraft in historic landing
A wide-body aircraft has landed at Maafaru International Airport for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s development. The Emirates Boeing 777 touched down as part of a crucial certification process, according to a statement from the Maldives Ministry of Transport. The Maafaru Airport, funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund and opened […]
RACL opens first airport in Meemu Atoll
Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) has announced the completion and opening of the Muli Airport, the first airport in Meemu Atoll. Development work on the airport, located on M. Muli island, began in August 2021. A regulatory test flight was successfully carried out on 25 April 2025. In a statement issued Thursday, RACL confirmed that […]
Maldives reports 90% completion of VIA terminal, outlines national aviation development
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced on Saturday that 90% of the new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) has been completed. The update was shared during a press conference held at the President’s Office, where he presented details of ongoing government projects, including airport development initiatives across the Maldives. According to the President, the […]
World Bank projects 5.7% Maldives GDP growth in 2025, driven by new airport terminal
The World Bank has projected that the Maldives’ real GDP will grow by 5.7% in 2025, supported in large part by the anticipated completion of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA). In its latest Maldives Development Update, the World Bank notes that medium-term economic growth is expected to strengthen slightly, with improved performance […]
