Gov’t Considers Short Airstrips as Alternative to Building Multiple Airports
President Muizzu at the Coffee With Youth Event. | Photo: PO
The government is exploring the use of short airstrips capable of handling small aircraft as a possible alternative to constructing multiple domestic airports, as discussions continue on improving connectivity between islands.
The proposal emerged during a Youth Coffee with the President event held on Tuesday night, where a participant suggested looking beyond full-scale airport development and considering other aviation options, including aircraft similar in size to seaplanes. In response, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu noted that while seaplanes play a key role in the Maldives’ transport network, their inability to operate at night limits their usefulness.
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As an alternative, the administration is assessing the feasibility of building short runways on larger islands or islands with sufficient land. These airstrips would serve small, wheeled aircraft comparable in size to seaplanes, allowing them to take off and land on runways rather than water.
Officials indicated that such operations would not require full airport infrastructure. A runway of around 600 metres could be sufficient for these aircraft, potentially expanding air access while reducing the cost and complexity associated with new airport construction.
The idea is being considered as a way to improve inter-island connectivity without developing numerous airports. However, it comes alongside an existing policy commitment to ensure that every inhabited island lies within 30 minutes of an airport. The government has also previously pledged to build several new airports as part of its wider infrastructure plans.
How short airstrips might complement or alter these commitments remains under review, with further technical assessments and policy discussions expected.
