The Maldives has achieved full nationwide night-landing capability following the successful test flight at Funadhoo Airport, marking a historic milestone in the country’s aviation development drive under President Mohamed Muizzu.
A test flight operated by Island Aviation Services Limited landed safely at Funadhoo Airport at 7:30 pm yesterday, paving the way for the commencement of scheduled night operations. The flight carried senior officials from Maldives Airports Company Limited and the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority, confirming the airport’s operational readiness.
Following the successful landing and technical assessments, the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority formally granted approval for night-time operations, making Funadhoo the final domestic airport to be equipped with night-landing facilities. This achievement means every airport across the Maldives can now support aircraft operations after dark, significantly strengthening connectivity, safety, and regional accessibility.
The development of Funadhoo Airport is a key presidential pledge of President Muizzu, reflecting his administration’s broader commitment to modernising national infrastructure and ensuring equitable development across the atolls. The airport expansion project was contracted to MACL, with physical works officially inaugurated during the President’s visit to Shaviyani Atoll on October 15, 2025. At the ceremony, President Muizzu publicly committed to completing the airfield lighting system before the end of the year, a promise now fulfilled.
Originally opened in 2020, Funadhoo Airport is undergoing major upgrades designed to elevate passenger experience and operational capacity. The ongoing works include a modern passenger lounge and restaurant, terminal enhancements, installation of a baggage conveyor system, and the extension of the runway, positioning the airport to meet future demand.
Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen hailed the development as a landmark moment for Maldivian aviation, stating that the nationwide rollout of night-landing facilities was a strategic national target set by President Muizzu and achieved through sustained leadership and coordinated institutional effort.
With Funadhoo now fully night-operational, the Maldives enters a new phase of aviation readiness, reinforcing its commitment to safe, modern, and inclusive air transport across the entire archipelago.
