Maafaru International Airport (MIA) achieved a major milestone on Tuesday with the successful landing of its first wide-body aircraft, signalling a significant advancement in the airport’s operational capabilities.

An Emirates Boeing 777, facilitated by the Abu Dhabi Fund, landed at the airport as part of an ongoing certification process. The trial was conducted to assess the airport’s readiness to accommodate larger aircraft, in line with broader efforts to expand its operations.

The certification process entails a series of evaluations, including runway capacity testing to ensure safe landings and take-offs, assessments of ground handling operations such as refuelling, passenger services, and cargo handling, as well as inspections of navigation systems and air traffic control procedures to ensure compliance with international aviation standards.

The airport has undergone major infrastructure upgrades to support wide-body operations. One of the key developments is the extension of the runway from 2.2 kilometres to 2.8 kilometres, enabling the airport to handle aircraft such as the Boeing 777.

In addition to the runway extension, the airport’s apron has been significantly expanded. The parking area, previously able to accommodate 13 jets, can now hold up to 26 aircraft.

Maafaru International Airport has become an increasingly important hub for private aviation in the Maldives. In 2024 alone, it recorded 98 private jet movements, making it the second-busiest airport for private jets in the country after Velana International Airport. The airport serves as a key gateway for tourists travelling to several high-end resorts, including Velaa Private Island, Soneva Jani, and Cheval Blanc Randheli.