Maldives and Sri Lanka to Launch Joint Air Ambulance Services from March

Maldives and Sri Lanka have reached an agreement to commence air ambulance services starting from March this year.

The initiation of the air ambulance service fulfils a presidential commitment.

During a recent press conference hosted by the President’s Office, Minister Abdulla Nazim announced the commencement of preparations to introduce air ambulance services in the Maldives as of March 1 this year. He disclosed plans to equip two air ambulances for the service, which will be operated by the national flag carrier, Maldivian.

Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen, currently in Colombo, held discussions with Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva on Tuesday, where they agreed to establish a bilateral framework facilitating immediate authorisation for emergency medical evacuation flights between the two nations.

While the Maldives currently dispatches patients to India for urgent treatment, the government intends to redirect such cases to Sri Lanka in the future, citing advancements in the quality of healthcare services in Sri Lanka.

The agreement reached during the meeting stipulates the launch of air ambulance services from the Maldives to Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, commencing on March 1. A dedicated unit has been established at the airport, with all requisite permits duly issued.

These developments occur amidst ongoing negotiations regarding the return of Indian army personnel stationed in the Maldives to operate the aircraft provided by India. The new Maldivian government has set a deadline of March 15 for the withdrawal of Indian troops.