Nasheed questions increase in northern airports

Former President Mohamed Nasheed on Thursday said that building airports in locations reachable by speedboat does not support the development of local tourism.

Nasheed made the statement on social media, criticising the government’s decision to expand airport projects. He noted that the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) was awarded work on three new airports during a recent visit to the northern region.

Nasheed said that there are already four airports in the northern Maldives, and four additional airports are being constructed in areas that can be reached within 19 to 36 minutes by speedboat.

“The result is that all airports lack economic and financial viability. The national airline is forced to operate at unsustainable costs, and local tourism does not benefit,” Nasheed wrote.

He added that building multiple airports within short distances reflects the absence of a long-term goal or an integrated transport plan, calling it a sign of irresponsibility in planning.

According to government plans, five new airports are being developed in the north:

Existing airports in the region are located in Ha. Hoarafushi, Hdh. Hanimaadhoo, Hdh. Kulhudhuffushi, and Sh. Funadhoo. Among these, Hanimaadhoo Airport is the only international airport.