Muli Airport Nears Operational Launch Pending Final Clearance

News

Regional Airports Limited has announced that Meemu Muli Airport is preparing to commence scheduled commercial flight operations, pending the completion of final assessments by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

A successful test flight conducted by national carrier Maldivian using a Dash-8 aircraft landed at the airport on April 25, marking a key milestone in the standard pre-operational process. The CAA is now conducting the necessary evaluations required for the issuance of the airport's operational license.

Regional Airports Limited Managing Director Ahmed Mubeen confirmed that although the airport’s opening was originally planned for May 1, the launch has been strategically postponed to align with the start of regular commercial services. He noted that airport infrastructure is fully complete, with only minor finishing work pending, and said that discussions with airline operators are underway to finalise flight schedules.

A meeting with Maldivian is scheduled for Sunday, where key decisions regarding commercial flight services are expected. Full operational rollout is anticipated within 15 to 20 days, subject to regulatory clearance and coordination with service providers.

Situated on Muli Island, the capital of Meemu Atoll, the airport features a 1,500-metre runway and was developed over 36 hectares of reclaimed land. Construction began in 2021 and was carried out by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) at a total cost exceeding MVR 300 million.

The opening of Meemu Muli Airport is expected to enhance regional connectivity, support economic development, and improve access to healthcare, education, and tourism opportunities in the central atolls.