Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr Abdulla Muththalib has said a second airport planned for Laamu Atoll is expected to improve transport access for nearby communities and support economic growth across the region.

Residents of Isdhoo, Kalaidhoo, Dhanbidhoo and Maabaidhoo currently travel about 45 minutes to reach Kadhdhoo Airport, the atoll's only operational airport. The Government expects a second airport to make travel easier for communities in the area.

Responding to a question in Parliament, Minister Dr Muththalib said Isdhoo Kalaidhoo was selected after considering factors including population, available land and long-term development potential. He said airport locations should be assessed based on their ability to support population growth, economic activity and tourism.

The minister said the island has sufficient space for future development and allows the airport to be built without land reclamation, reducing project costs.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced plans to develop a second airport in Laamu Atoll during a visit to Maavah in October 2025, after multiple islands requested the project. He said the final location would be selected with sustainability as a key consideration.

Laamu Atoll has natural, historical and economic potential, while the new airport is expected to improve connectivity and support further growth across the region.