New Hanimaadhoo International Airport Terminal Begins Operations Ahead of Official Opening

News

The new terminal at Hanimaadhoo International Airport officially commenced operations today, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s major expansion and modernisation project, which is expected to be fully completed next month.

All airport operations have now been relocated from the old terminal to the newly constructed facility, following a successful testing phase carried out by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). The Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) process included comprehensive system and procedural tests for both arrivals and departures, which MACL confirmed were completed smoothly.

The relocation and operational shift were conducted in line with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidelines. As part of the broader upgrade, the old terminal, runway, and surrounding areas are being cleared to accommodate Code C aircraft, including Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 models.

Final preparations are now underway to optimise terminal services, fine-tune operational procedures, and complete staff training to ensure full compliance with international and civil aviation standards ahead of the official opening.

Once fully operational, the upgraded Hanimaadhoo International Airport will feature a 2,465-metre runway and an aerobridge, designed to handle up to 1.3 million passengers annually.

The USD 136.6 million project, contracted to India’s JMC Projects Limited in January 2023, represents a key step in strengthening connectivity and economic growth in the northern Maldives.