The whole of Maafaru island is bustling today as the island prepares for the official opening of their new airport, Maafaru International Airport (MIA) later this evening. A long awaited dream of more than 12 years, the opening of the airport will surely bring much joy and happiness to the residents of the island and the atoll alike.
Speaking to some residents of Maafaru, it is evident that this could very well be one of the happiest days for the island community.
"We are very hopeful. I do not think our island will see a happier day", said a resident.
Maafaru has a population of 1257 people. Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom officially initiated the project to develop Maafaru International Airport in 2017. Several efforts were undertaken even prior to that to develop an airport at Maafaru since 2007. The plan to develop an airport in Maafaru has been in the making for the past 15 years.
It was first announced during the presidency of former president Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom that an airport will be developed in Maafaru. After that, during his half brother Yameen's rule, the development of the airport was handed over to two different companies. Ultimately, the aiport development was carried out by Singapore's Tuff company.
Funded under a US$ 60 million grant aid by UAE's Abu Dhabhi Fund for Development, MIA can land world's largest aircraft such as Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. With a runway 2200 meters in length and 40 meters in width, the airport also boasts a spacious passenger terminal and a VIP lounge. However, the city hotel planned to be constructed has not been built yet.
Maafaru International Airport will be operated and maintained by national airline Maldivian. The airline plans to operate international flights from the airport. As Noonu atoll has a number of high end resorts, private jets belonging to wealthy tourists will be parked at the airport. This will both directly and indirectly benefit the island.
President of Maafaru Council, Abdul Majid Ali said the opening of the airport is likely to bring positive development to the island, both economically and otherwise.
"Let us take a look at Dharavandhoo. Their guest house business boomed with the opening of an airport on the island. We are hoping our island will see a similar development," said Majid.
Majid said he hopes that the value of land on the island increases with the opening of the airport.
"A square foot of land now comes to about 50 laari. However, the demand will increase in the future. This will bring development to the island", said Maajid.
With afresh hopes and dreams for the island and atoll, the opening of MIA at Maafaru is special indeed. The residents of the island are impatiently waiting for the day international flights will commence at the airport.
