Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen says the impact of reforms introduced at national airline Maldivian is becoming increasingly visible.

Minister Ameen made the remarks at the opening of Maldivian’s new seaplane terminal, which he said has been developed to meet standards recognized across the seaplane industry.

The minister described Maldivian’s development as an example of how a state-owned company can improve its performance while contributing to the country’s interests.

However, Minister Ameen said the airline faced significant difficulties between 2018 and 2023 due to poor management, resulting in a substantial debt burden.

He said the government’s focus is now on strengthening Maldivian and building a more sustainable future for the company.

Minister Ameen described Maldivian as a source of national pride and said the administration has spent the past three years working to transform its services and operations.

Rather than focusing primarily on expanding infrastructure and acquiring capital assets, the government is prioritizing improvements to employees’ working conditions, he said.

The minister said ensuring that staff have access to essential services within the company is also among the government’s priorities.

Housing is another area receiving attention, Minister Ameen said the government is working to address accommodation challenges faced by Maldivian employees and has allocated two plots of land for housing projects.

He added that physical work at the sites is expected to begin soon.

Minister Ameen also noted that a new building capable of supporting Island Aviation’s operations is currently under construction.

He said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision is for the government to provide Maldivian with the support it needs, within the state’s capacity, to meet the company’s operational requirements and strengthen its future.