The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced that construction of the new terminal building at Hanimaadhoo International Airport is nearing completion, with the official opening expected in November.

Speaking to local media, MACL’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, stated that the final phase of construction works for the terminal is now underway. He noted that the terminal building is structurally complete and final preparations are being made for operational readiness.

Shareef confirmed that the terminal is ready to be handed over for operation once all remaining finishing works are completed. Preparations are also in progress to shift flight operations from the temporary terminal to the new terminal.

The construction of the new terminal is part of the Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development Project, one of the Government’s key infrastructure initiatives aimed at expanding regional air connectivity. The project includes significant upgrades such as a new runway, terminal facilities, and supporting infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft and increased passenger capacity.

Development of the airport is being carried out under the Government’s line of credit agreement with India. The project, undertaken by India’s JMC Projects, began in early 2023 after being officially handed over in 2022 under the Exim Bank of India’s USD 800 million line of credit, with USD 136 million allocated for this development.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, during his visit to Hanimaadhoo in August, stated that efforts were underway to ensure the new terminal construction would be completed by November.

The upgraded airport is expected to serve as a key international gateway for the northern region of the Maldives, improving accessibility and fostering economic growth.

Additionally, President Dr Muizzu has directed that facilities at the airport include a foreign exchange counter to allow travellers to obtain US dollars at bank rates, and an on-site ATM providing dollar withdrawals for added convenience.