Maafaru International Airport is set to commence work on the expansion of the passenger terminal, as part of efforts to enhance capacity and passenger services at one of the busiest airports in the atolls.

The terminal expansion is being implemented under a USD 3.6 million agreement awarded to China’s Hunan No.6 Engineering Company, following a contract signed with Island Aviation Services in November 2025. Island Aviation manages Maafaru International Airport under the national aviation network.

According to Island Aviation, construction equipment and materials required for the project have been transported to Maafaru, with on-site preparatory works underway. Heavy machinery and bulk construction materials have also been mobilised to facilitate the start of physical construction.

The project involves the construction of a two-storey terminal building adjacent to the existing facility, adding 6,238 square feet of space and increasing the total terminal area to 12,476 square feet. Island Aviation said the expansion will double passenger handling capacity and include an enlarged arrivals hall, expanded baggage-handling facilities, an upper-floor lounge accommodating up to 60 passengers, and four CIP lounges on the ground floor, with completion targeted within 10 months.

Island Aviation said the terminal expansion aligns with the Government’s master plan for the development of Maafaru International Airport and the surrounding area. The airport began operations in December 2019 and currently features a 2,200-metre runway, apron, taxiway, VIP lounge, control tower, and fire and rescue station constructed during its initial development phase.

Maafaru International Airport records the highest number of flights among airports in the atolls, handling an average of 20 to 25 flights per day during peak seasons. Noonu Atoll hosts a large number of luxury resorts, with Maafaru serving as a key gateway for private jet operations.