Maldives' newest international airport being developed in Noonu Atoll is gearing up for test flights next month.
Speaking to reporters after inspecting the progress of the Maafaru International Airport (MIA) funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund, tourism minister Moosa Zameer said the airport was now ready for test flights which would begin at the back end of next month.
"First we will look to complete the runway. The sub phase of the runway has already been completed. So we think tarring can begin around June 25 or 27th. If that goes according to schedule, consultants are saying tarring can be done within 13 days," Zameer detailed after a sit-down with the contracting firm.
The project worth USD60 million has been described as a 'gift' to the Maldivian people by the UAE government with 2,200 meter runway capable of catering to the biggest air crafts and modern facilities.
The airport which is believed to increase international and domestic flights to the region, is expected to open on July 26, 2018 - coinciding the same day Maldives commemorates its Independence Day.
