The government has resumed use of the two helicopters and the Dornier aircraft which were previously gifted the Maldives by the Indian government. This is the first time that these aircrafts have been in use in this way since the start of this administration.
The government has resumed use of the two helicopters and the Dornier aircraft which were previously gifted the Maldives by the Indian government. This is the first time that these aircrafts have been in use in this way since the start of this administration.
A message shared with media by the Maldives National Defence Force today said that the provision of medical evacuations through the Dornier flight and helicopters have resumed, this time with the civilian crew sent from India.
These aircrafts had been out of operation since the incumbent government came into office. This was done under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's presidential pledge to remove Indian military personnel stationed in the country. These flights were previously operated by Indian military personnel, but have since been replaced with a civilian crew, also from India.
During the process of removing the foreign military presence, although these flights were out of operation, the government continuted to provide this service through the National Air Ambulance service which it established. The Air Ambulance Service is conducted with a repurposed Dash 8 flight and a sea plane.
By the 10th of May this year, all Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives were repatriated. In exchange, civilians with the necessary expertise came to the Maldives to take up their responsibilities. In the case of bringing in civilians, the President has assured that they will not be stationed here permanently, but are on a time-based contract.
Relations between Maldives and India have improved in recent months with the country once again extending assistance to the Maldives in many areas.
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