President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the new international airport in Hanimaadhoo will be operational by November, marking a pivotal milestone in the region’s infrastructure development. The project, valued at USD 129.7 million, promises to transform connectivity and economic prospects for the northern Maldives.
During a tour of Haa Dhaalu Atoll, the President revealed that 91 percent of the airport modernization project is already complete. Hanimaadhoo, one of the first airports built in the Maldives, has undergone the most extensive renovation in its history.
The Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) reports significant progress across major project components. Critical infrastructure including the runway, Air Traffic Control tower, cargo building, hangar taxiway, and utility facilities have reached 99 percent completion. The passenger and jetty terminals stand at 92 percent, featuring a 10,380 square metre terminal with distinctive Maldivian architectural elements.
A standout feature of the new airport will be its first-ever aerobridge outside Malé, enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency. The facility is designed to accommodate a diverse range of aircraft, including A320, Boeing 737, and ATR models. The expansive apron can simultaneously host up to nine aircraft—three Airbus and six ATR planes—with an impressive projected annual passenger capacity of 1.3 million.
The airport’s innovative design includes a two-level terminal configuration. The lower floor will serve domestic travel, while the upper level will manage international departures and arrivals. This strategic layout ensures streamlined passenger movement and efficient airport operations.
Beyond infrastructure, President Muizzu announced additional traveler-friendly services. Local passengers will be able to purchase US dollars at bank rates when departing from Hanimaadhoo, mirroring services at Velana International Airport. A dedicated US dollar ATM will be installed alongside existing rufiyaa ATMs, further enhancing convenience for travelers.
The airport development is part of a comprehensive growth strategy for the island. The Hanimaadhoo Council will begin issuing passports and national identity cards locally upon the airport’s opening. Complementary development initiatives, including housing, healthcare, and road infrastructure projects, are planned to support the anticipated regional expansion.
This transformative project represents more than just an airport—it symbolizes a strategic investment in the northern Maldives’ future. By improving transportation infrastructure, the Hanimaadhoo International Airport is poised to unlock new opportunities for tourism, trade, and regional economic development.
As construction enters its final stages, anticipation builds for an airport that promises to be a game-changer for the Maldivian archipelago’s northern region.