Malé, Maldives – November 13, 2025: Island Aviation Services Ltd. (IASL) has signed an agreement to begin the Maafaru International Airport Terminal Building Extension Project, marking a major step forward in the airport’s ongoing development and expansion.

The agreement was signed with Hunan No.6 Engineering Co., Ltd as the main contractor, while Gedor Consulting Pvt Ltd has been appointed as the project consultant. The construction, expected to be completed within 10 months, will introduce a two-storey terminal building that significantly expands the existing terminal space.

According to IASL, the new terminal will feature an enlarged arrival hall, a dedicated CIP lounge, and enhanced first-floor facilities including a passenger lounge and additional office spaces. Once completed, the project will increase passenger-handling capacity and strengthen Maafaru’s role as a key international gateway linking the northern Maldives to global destinations.

The terminal project follows the recent completion of the runway expansion, which extended Maafaru’s runway to 2,850 metres, allowing it to accommodate wide-body aircraft. The newly expanded aircraft parking area also improves the airport’s ability to handle business jets, scheduled flights, and charter operations.

IASL said the developments are part of a broader effort to enhance both airside and landside operations, positioning Maafaru International Airport as a strategic aviation hub for the northern atolls and supporting regional economic and tourism growth.

Opened in 2019, Maafaru International Airport has generated employment opportunities and continues to deliver economic benefits to the surrounding region. Equipped with a Jet A-1 fuel farm and a dedicated seaplane dock, the airport plays an essential role in improving connectivity and facilitating the expansion of luxury tourism in the Maldives.

The terminal extension aligns with the Government of Maldives’ national development vision, focusing on improving infrastructure, service standards, and long-term connectivity to support the sustainable growth of air travel and tourism across the country.