The air connectivity policy envisioned by the incumbent administration is being successfully implemented, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said on Wednesday night.
He made the remark at the ceremony held to inaugurate the newly developed Faresmaathoda Airport in Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, last night.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Solih said that the communities living on every island of Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls (Huvadhoo Atoll) could now reach an airport within 20 to 30 minutes, with the exception of one island in the atoll. He added that this was the vision of the administration for every atoll.
He said that the completion of the four regional airports currently in development in the northern and southern parts of the Maldives will increase jobs, and increase economic activities within the atolls.
Speaking about the economic prospects that would come with Faresmaathoda Airport’s opening, President Solih said that it will encourage local entrepreneurs to expand guesthouses as well as dining ventures in the area.
"This is an opportune moment for entrepreneurs aspiring to open their own guesthouse ventures in the area," he added.
President Solih also said that the road between the airport and the residential area will be completed after the causeway project, which will connect the local community to the airport.
Communities living in Vaadhoo and Fiyoari, neighboring Faresmaathoda, can now easily access the airport.
The airport was developed by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) at a cost of roughly MVR 300 million. The contractor installed a 1,200-meter by 30-meter runway alongside other modern airport facilities. The airport can serve 150 people per hour and can also accommodate flights at night.
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