Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has announced that the Government of Maldives is formulating plans to develop an airport in the country as a secondary hub for an international airline, as part of a broader long-term strategy to strengthen national aviation capacity and support the continued growth of the tourism industry. The announcement was made on Sunday during a press conference held at the President’s Office by a ministerial committee established in response to the ongoing global situation.
Speaking at the briefing, Minister Ameen said that recent global disruptions have had a noticeable impact on airline operations, particularly for carriers that rely heavily on specific routes and limited operating networks. In light of these developments, he emphasized the importance of the Maldives adopting a more diversified and forward-looking approach to aviation development in order to build greater resilience, improve connectivity, and create stronger opportunities for sustained economic growth.
According to the minister, the government’s long-term vision is to position an airport in the Maldives as a hub for a major international airline, thereby enhancing the country’s role in regional and international air travel. He noted that there are promising opportunities in both the northern and southern regions of the country, indicating that the government is carefully considering strategic locations that can support future expansion while also contributing to balanced national development. He stated that efforts are currently underway to establish a secondary hub for a major airline as part of this long-term national strategy.
The initiative reflects the Maldives’ continued focus on enhancing its international accessibility as a world-renowned destination, where seamless air connectivity remains essential to the performance of the tourism sector and the wider economy. Improved aviation infrastructure and stronger airline partnerships can help increase route options, improve travel convenience, and support a more dynamic flow of visitors from global markets. In a destination where tourism plays a central role in national prosperity, strengthening the aviation sector is also closely tied to the continued success of resorts, guesthouses, liveaboards, and related travel services across the islands.
Minister Ameen also stated that the government is working to expand access for low-cost carriers as part of its efforts to further support tourist arrivals and diversify air travel options to the Maldives. He explained that such airlines require specific operational arrangements similar to those available at international airports, and that the government plans to develop the necessary framework to make the Maldives more attractive and accessible to these carriers. This approach is expected to support more competitive travel options, broaden market reach, and open additional opportunities for visitors seeking convenient and affordable access to the destination.
He further noted that these planned measures form part of a wider government effort to expand and strengthen the aviation sector in response to changing global conditions and evolving industry demands. By pursuing strategic aviation development, expanding airline access, and preparing the necessary infrastructure and operational frameworks, the Maldives is aiming to reinforce its position as a highly connected island destination while creating long-term value for tourism, trade, and national development.
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