In the context of recent concerns and speculation surrounding a tragic incident involving a 13-year-old patient who passed away yesterday, Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon revealed that, according to statistics from the past three years Maldivian Airlines, operated by Island Aviation, facilitated 93% of medical evacuations.

Minister Ghassan took to Twitter to address the situation, emphasizing that the Medical Operation Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) does not require informing or obtaining consent from the president.

He stressed that evacuations are carried out through the coordination of relevant authorities.

This response comes amid rumors suggesting that delayed permission from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was a factor in the child's transfer from GA. Atoll Hospital to IGMH on Thursday evening.

Notably, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had previously announced the introduction of Air Ambulance service effective March 1.