MVR 114 Million Spent on Air Ambulance Service, Averaging MVR 63,400 Per Patient

The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has announced that MVR 114.11 million has been spent on patient transport via air ambulances under the Aasandha scheme since the service was launched on February 29, 2024.

The program, introduced as a flagship initiative under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, was designed to strengthen emergency medical care accessibility across the Maldives. Operated in collaboration between Maldivian Airlines, the Ministry of Health, and NSPA, the service has quickly become a vital component of the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

According to statistics released by Maldivian Airlines since launching to date 1,562 flights were operated with 1,800 patients transported. Based on the expenditure reported to date, this translates to an average of approximately MVR 63,400 spent per patient. NSPA noted that MVR 29.01 million was spent in 2024, while MVR 85.1 million has already been spent in 2025, underscoring both the scale of demand and the financial commitment required to sustain the service.

At the heart of the operation is a DHC Dash 8‑200 series aircraft, specially configured to deliver swift and safe critical care during medical transfers. The aircraft is equipped to handle emergencies, ensuring patients receive immediate attention while being transported to facilities capable of advanced treatment.