Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Abdulla Muththalib has said that the newly launched air services connecting four southern atolls could bring transformative change to the Maldives’ transport system, describing the initiative as a potential shift towards a more efficient, frequency-based model of connectivity.

The minister made the remarks at a ceremony held to inaugurate flights to Kaadedhdhoo, following the rollout of air services under the recently launched South Connectivity network. He said the project reflects a long-term effort by the Government and aligns with the President’s vision to improve mobility between islands through practical and cost-effective solutions.

Minister Dr Muththalib noted that the Maldives does not require large, volume-based transport systems, but rather a network that prioritises frequent and reliable connections. He said smaller aircraft and increased flight frequency offer a more suitable approach for the country’s geography, adding that the pilot project linking the four southern atolls by air is intended to test this model.

According to the minister, the infrastructure required to operate aircraft of this size is relatively minimal, with significantly lower costs compared to developing new airports. He said constructing a single airport can cost more than MVR 600 million, while some projects also require extensive land reclamation, underscoring the financial efficiency of the current approach.

The national airline Maldivian has said the new flights will ease travel for residents of the southern atolls, improving access for personal travel, education and other essential needs. The airline also noted that the network will facilitate medical travel through Gan International Airport, which is positioned as the regional hub.

Maldivian further said the expanded connectivity is expected to support tourism growth in the south, enabling tourists arriving in Gan to travel seamlessly to neighbouring islands through a single air network. The airline said the initiative will benefit resorts, guesthouses and other tourism service providers across the connected atolls.