The Maafaru International Airport is set for a major expansion following the awarding of a USD 3.6 million terminal development contract to China’s Hunan No. 6 Engineering Company.

The agreement was signed on Thursday between Island Aviation Services (IAS) Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas and Wang He, the legal representative of Hunan No. 6, during an official ceremony.

IAS, which operates the national airline Maldivian and manages the airport, said the project will enhance passenger capacity and overall service quality at one of the country’s key regional airports.

Under the agreement, a two-storey terminal building will be constructed adjacent to the existing facility and completed within 10 months.

Once finished, the combined terminal area will span 12,476 square feet, improving passenger flow and comfort for both domestic and international travelers.

The new terminal will feature upgraded arrival and baggage handling facilities, along with premium additions including four Commercially Important Person (CIP) lounges on the ground floor and a 60-seat lounge on the upper level.

IAS highlighted that the development supports the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional connectivity and boost tourism infrastructure, noting that the expansion will provide greater convenience to passengers and contribute significantly to the tourism sector.

The Maafaru expansion also forms part of a broader master plan currently being prepared by IAS, which envisions transforming the airport into a comprehensive regional hub.

The plan is expected to include further development projects, potentially including an airport hotel, in line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision for transport and tourism growth.

Maafaru International Airport, which began commercial operations on 1 December 2019, was originally developed with a 2,200-metre runway, a passenger terminal, VIP lounge, air traffic control tower, and fire and rescue facilities.