Land reclamation works have officially commenced for the development of a new domestic airport in Noonu Vihafaru.

The commencement ceremony was attended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, alongside senior Government officials. The project was inaugurated by Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed and Managing Director of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Ibrahim Shareef, with MACL contracted to carry out the land reclamation works.

According to project details, a total of over 40 hectares of land, will be reclaimed for the airport development. The reclaimed land will be elevated 1.6 metres above sea level. The planned airport will feature a 1,800-metre runway, along with a terminal building, apron and other operational facilities required for domestic aviation services.

The Vihafaru airport project was first announced through a Presidential Decree in 2024. During a visit to Noonu Atoll in July 2025, President Dr Muizzu assured residents that physical works on the project would begin in early 2026. He reiterated the importance of developing an additional airport in the atoll to better serve the islands of Holhudhoo, Velidhoo and Fodhdhoo, alongside the existing airport at Maafaru.

The Vihafaru airport is expected to improve regional connectivity and support economic activity in Noonu Atoll, particularly in tourism and related sectors. The project is viewed as a medium- to long-term infrastructure investment, aligned with wider development plans in the region, including the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) township project. Once completed, the airport is expected to strengthen access to nearby islands and resorts, enhance the atoll’s appeal to investors, and support economic diversification efforts. The project is scheduled for completion within two years.