By The Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development Project has successfully reached 67.5% completion, the Ministry of Construction and Building announced today. This significant milestone was achieved as part of an ambitious development plan that includes a new 2,460-meter runway and a terminal with a capacity of 1.3 million passengers per annum, along with other facilities aimed at expanding international flights.
The project is being carried out under the auspices of a USD 800 million credit line from India’s Exim Bank, with Kalpataru Projects International of India spearheading the construction. During a recent visit to the site, Construction and Infrastructure Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, accompanied by Indian Ambassador to Maldives Shri Munu Mahawar and Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen, inspected the ongoing work and received updates on the project’s progress.
The key developments of the project are as follows:
- Runway and Apron: 97% of the 2,460-meter runway and apron is completed, with full completion expected by November this year.
- Passenger Terminal Building: 54.1% of the 10,500 square meter terminal is completed, with structural and finishing work progressing simultaneously.
- Air Traffic Control Tower: 75% of the 3,800 square meter control tower is complete, with structural work finished and finishing work now underway.
- Fuel Farm and Jetty: 44.5% completion, with foundation work for tanks completed and tank planning underway.
- Ancillary Buildings: Most of the work on other ancillary buildings is completed, with much expected to be handed over by November.
- Road Infrastructure: 50% of the required roads for the airport are completed.
- MNDF Center: 55% of the MNDF center under this project is completed.
The ministry also engaged in discussions with the contractor, consultant, and Regional Airport Company Limited to identify measures that could expedite the project’s completion. The entire development is expected to be finalized by March next year.
Upon completion, the Hanimaadhoo Airport will be equipped to handle international Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft, facilitating direct flights from regions including the Middle East, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and North Africa. This development is anticipated to significantly enhance the Maldives’ connectivity and boost its tourism and economic sectors.