The Government has formally transferred the operations of B. Dharavandhoo Airport to Island Aviation Services Limited (IAS), marking a significant step toward strengthening regional aviation infrastructure and service delivery.
The handover agreement was signed during a ceremony held at the airport, with Director General Mohamed Ahmed Shameem representing the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, while IAS Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas signed on behalf of the national carrier’s operator.
This transition fulfills a pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during his visit to Dharavandhoo on August 13 last year, where he assured residents that the airport’s management would be entrusted to IAS to better align its development with community expectations and national aviation goals.
Strengthening a Key Regional Airport
Operational for 14 years, Dharavandhoo Airport was originally developed under a public-private partnership by Coastline Hotels and Resorts and officially opened on October 17, 2012. Prior to this formal transfer, IAS had already been managing the airport under an operational agreement with the developer.
The airport currently serves domestic carriers including Maldivian, Flyme, and Manta Air. Since its inauguration, it has handled more than 42,000 flight movements and over 1.8 million passengers, with tourists accounting for approximately 72 percent of total traffic. The facility currently employs 99 staff.
Terminal Expansion to Boost Capacity
In parallel with the operational handover, authorities also launched a major terminal expansion project aimed at enhancing passenger experience and accommodating future growth.
Designed around people. Inspired by nature. Built for the future.
Take a first look at the new Dharavandhoo Airport terminal, featuring expanded spaces, seamless passenger flow, modern check-in experiences, and a brand-new executive lounge.#MaldivianAero pic.twitter.com/oARLTOy6sE
— IASLaero (@IASLaero) April 1, 2026
The project was inaugurated by Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen, with senior IAS officials including Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas and Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem in attendance.
The development will add an 814 square meter extension to the terminal, introducing expanded arrival areas, additional check-in counters, new baggage handling facilities, and improved passenger amenities such as a café. Plans also include the addition of a new departure gate to streamline operations.
Design and consultancy work for the project was carried out by Epoch Associates Private Limited, following a competitive bidding process initiated by IAS in November last year.
Strategic Aviation Push
The dual move, operational consolidation under IAS and infrastructure expansion, reflects a broader government push to modernize regional airports and support tourism-driven growth across the Maldives.
With Dharavandhoo serving as a critical gateway to Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and major tourism hub, the upgrades are expected to significantly improve connectivity, efficiency, and passenger handling capacity in the region.
