Govt to hand over Dharavandhoo airport upgrade to IAS

President Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the government has transferred the operation of B. Dharavandhoo Airport to Island Aviation Services (IAS) to undertake its upgrade.

Speaking to residents of Dharavandhoo during his visit to B. Atoll, President Muizzu said the airport currently lacks the necessary facilities for expansion, despite having been operational since 2012 and serving nearby resorts and guesthouses.

He noted that the decision followed consultations with the airport’s investor to reach an agreement allowing the transfer of operational responsibility to IAS for the purpose of upgrading the facilities in line with government plans.

President Muizzu stated that the government’s aim is to establish a long-term operational arrangement with IAS, enabling the provision of services that would also benefit the wider B. Atoll community.

The president added that IAS had already drawn up plans for the development, and that the improvements would positively impact nearby islands by increasing connectivity and supporting local economic activity.