President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the new Hanimaadhoo International Airport will be completed and operational by November this year.

Addressing residents during his visit to the island, the President described the project as the most significant development for Haa Dhaalu Hanimaadhoo, noting that it has taken considerable time but is now progressing at the fastest pace with modern facilities. He assured the community that the airport will be opened with all essential services in place.

Highlighting the benefits of the new airport, President Dr Muizzu said passengers departing from Hanimaadhoo would be able to purchase US Dollars at the bank rate. He added that a US Dollar ATM will also be established in the local residential area for better public access.

The President emphasised that the airport will serve as a catalyst for tourism growth in Hanimaadhoo and the surrounding region. He further pledged that passport services and ID card printing facilities will be introduced in Hanimaadhoo once the airport opens, bringing convenience and prosperity to local residents, migrants, and service seekers.

According to the Regional Airports Company, 91 per cent of the overall project has now been completed. The airport will feature a state-of-the-art terminal spanning 10,380 square metres, designed to reflect the Maldivian identity. Currently, 92 per cent of the passenger and jetty terminal works have been finalised.

The new airport will be capable of handling Airbus A320s and Boeing 737 aircraft. Its apron has been designed to accommodate up to nine aircraft at once, including three Airbuses and six ATRs. The terminal will feature two floors, with domestic operations on the lower level and international services on the upper level, each equipped with two gates. Notably, Hanimaadhoo will also be the first atoll airport in the country to feature an aerobridge.

Developed under a nearly MVR 2 billion project, Hanimaadhoo International Airport will have the capacity to serve 1.3 million passengers annually, positioning it as one of the key gateways for northern Maldives.