President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the inauguration of Hanimaadhoo International Airport signifies not merely the launch of new infrastructure, but the beginning of a gateway to Boduthiladhunmathi’s development, urging all to harness its potential.
He made the statement while presiding over the ceremonial inauguration of Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HIA) in HDh. Hanimaadhoo, a project redeveloped with financing secured through a line of credit from India’s EXIM Bank. The President was joined by Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, the Special Envoy of the Prime Minister of India, Minister of Civil Aviation, for the inauguration.
The President stated the project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through vision, transformation, and perseverance. He acknowledged that although work commenced in late 2022 and initially progressed slowly, causing public concern, the pace was subsequently accelerated in line with the pledge he made during his presidential campaign, a commitment that has now been successfully fulfilled.
Describing the project as a catalyst for unlocking the potential of the northern Maldives and enhancing global connectivity, he urged all stakeholders to seize this golden opportunity. In this regard, he called on international airlines to commence operations to Hanimaadhoo International Airport and encouraged local businesses to increase investment in the northern region.
The President highlighted the employment opportunities expected to arise from the inauguration of Hanimaadhoo International Airport, emphasising that these align with the Government’s approach to promoting self-sufficiency through economic development. He particularly highlighted the anticipated economic benefits associated with the resort currently under development in HDh. Naagoashi.
The 2,465-metre runway at Hanimaadhoo International Airport was inaugurated by a Maldivian A320 aircraft carrying the President to the ceremony. Commanded by a captain from Hanimaadhoo, the flight marked largest aircraft ever to land at the airport.
Although Hanimaadhoo was designated an international airport in 2012, the upgrade works experienced delays, and the enhanced infrastructure has only just been completed. The enhancements include an aerobridge, making it, alongside Velana International Airport, the only airport in the Maldives with this feature.
The new passenger terminal, poised to drive transformative economic progress in the northern Maldives, has a capacity to handle 1.3 million passengers annually. Spanning 10,380 square metres, it is equipped with modern facilities designed to support efficient operations.
In his address, the President assured the swift completion of development projects nationwide, citing the accelerated progress of the previously stalled Hanimaadhoo International Airport project as an example, noting that 70 per cent of the work was completed within a short period after he assumed office.
Alongside the President, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef, State officials, foreign dignitaries, and representatives of various Government institutions attended the inauguration ceremony. Following the official proceedings, the President, First Lady, and dignitaries toured Hanimaadhoo International Airport and its new passenger terminal.
