President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has confirmed that the evaluation process for the introduction of helicopter services in the Maldives is currently in progress.

Speaking at a press conference held on Saturday, the President noted that the service is expected to significantly benefit the tourism sector. He stated that bid evaluations are actively ongoing, with the aim of enhancing connectivity across the country.

In addition to the helicopter project, the President also announced that Maldivian’s second wide-body aircraft is expected to begin operations in October. He added that connectivity had recently improved, with two new airlines starting operations and three previously stalled services resuming.

The President’s comments follow earlier statements from Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen, who had previously announced that commercial helicopter services would begin in March 2025. However, the timeline was later revised due to the need for adjustments in the planning phase.

Minister Ameen noted that a feasibility survey for the service was conducted under the guidance of the UK Civil Aviation Authority. He said the service would follow the highest safety standards, and that the most secure operational models would be adopted.