Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen has announced ongoing efforts to establish an independent Aircraft Accident Investigations Unit in the Maldives to enhance safety standards across the nation's air transport sector.

Speaking to local media, Minister Ameen emphasised the critical importance of ensuring aircraft safety, given the high frequency of air operations in the Maldives, including the world’s largest seaplane network.

Minister Mohamed Ameen

The Minister highlighted the need for a separate investigative body, independent from the Civil Aviation Authority, aligning with international best practices.

He explained that establishing such a unit would require a presidential decree, with a proposal set to be submitted to the cabinet by the end of January 2025 and a decision expected within the same timeframe.

As part of this process, Minister Ameen outlined that the initial step involves forming an Aircraft Investigations Committee, Bureau, or an independent body tentatively named the Maldivian Accident Investigation.

Despite being a small island nation, the Maldives manages a significant volume of daily flights and operates the world’s most extensive seaplane network.