Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen has said that helicopter services in the Maldives are set to commence in March of next year.
Speaking to state media, Ameen said 36 international companies have expressed interest in providing helicopter services in the Maldives following the invitation in August. He said an agreement would be signed with the chosen operator within 15 days. The service will comply with civil aviation standards and prioritize safety, he said.
The initial agreement will cover a 10-year operational period. The helicopter service will be used for emergency medical evacuations and tourism purposes. The minister said the helicopter service would ease the difficulties encountered in transporting patients to Male' in emergency situations and solve the difficulties encountered in night travel.