Land Reclamation Begins at Vihafaru for New Airport in Noonu Atoll

Land reclamation work has commenced at Vihafaru in Noonu Atoll as part of a project to develop a new airport. 

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu attended the launch of the project. The practical works for the land reclamation were initiated by Minister of Economic Development, Mohamed Saeed. The project has been contracted to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).

A total of 42 hectares of land is scheduled to be reclaimed for the airport. The facility will include a 1,500-metre runway, with the reclamation completed to an elevation of 1.6 metres. In addition, the project will develop a terminal apron and other facilities necessary for airport operations.

The airport development project was first announced by President Dr Muizzu last year during a community outreach visit to Holhudhoo, Noonu Atoll. The announcement highlighted the importance of an airport for residents of Holhudhoo, Velidhoo and Fohdhoo, and its role within the government’s broader development plans. Vihafaru was selected as the site for the airport due to its proximity to Velidhoo.

President Dr Muizzu stated that the commencement of the land reclamation marks the start of practical work on the project, fulfilling a pledge made to local residents. The airport is expected to be completed within two years.