MACL Begins Overhaul of Nine Domestic Airports After RACL Merger

News

The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has launched efforts to improve nine domestic airports that were officially transferred to its management following the Government’s decision to dissolve the Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL).

The transition, which took place last month, stems from a September 2024 Cabinet decision to merge RACL’s operations with MACL as part of broader cost-cutting and efficiency measures.

MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed confirmed that work is already underway to address longstanding issues. Exco members and technical teams have completed site visits to all nine airports to assess conditions and identify urgent needs. The team also inspected Fuvahmulah Airport last week, holding discussions with on-site staff.

Many of the facilities were found to be in poor condition, with inadequate infrastructure cited as a key concern. MACL said it is now procuring the required resources to upgrade facilities and raise service standards.

As part of the transition, MACL has also assumed responsibility for ground handling services and absorbed all RACL employees into its workforce. Ground operations at these airports, previously overseen by Island Aviation, are now fully under MACL.

Government officials have said the merger will help reduce costs and improve efficiency in domestic airport management. Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed noted that the reform aligns with the Administration’s economic recovery plan, which has been recognised by international financial institutions including the IMF and World Bank.