The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has begun efforts to improve the condition of nine domestic airports that were officially transferred to its management following the Government’s decision to dissolve the Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL).

The transition took place last month, after the Cabinet decided in September 2024 to merge RACL’s operations with MACL as part of wider cost-cutting measures. 

MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed said work is already underway to address longstanding issues at the airports. As part of the initial phase, Exco members and technical teams from the company have visited all nine facilities to assess their condition and identify urgent needs. The team also inspected Fuvahmulah Airport last week and held discussions with staff on-site.

Several of the airports were described as being in poor condition, with inadequate facilities highlighted as a particular concern. MACL said it is now in the process of procuring the necessary resources to resolve these issues and ensure services meet required standards.

In addition to taking over airport operations, MACL has assumed responsibility for ground handling and absorbed RACL’s employees into its workforce. Previously, Island Aviation had overseen ground operations at RACL-managed airports, but this function has now shifted fully under MACL.

Government officials have said the merger will reduce costs and improve efficiency in airport management. Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed noted that the reform is part of the Administration’s economic recovery plan, which has been recognised by international financial institutions including the IMF and World Bank.