IASL Inaugurates Maafaru Apron Extension and Breaks Ground for Terminal Expansion

Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL) has inaugurated the apron extension at Maafaru International Airport and commenced construction of the airport’s terminal building expansion, marking the latest phase of development at the Noonu Atoll facility.

Maafaru International Airport, opened in 2018, was built to support the growing number of high‑end resorts in the region and to accommodate private jets and narrow‑body aircraft. Since its opening, the airport has undergone several rounds of infrastructure upgrades to meet rising operational demand.

The newly inaugurated apron extension adds 15,300 square metres of parking space, increasing the airport’s capacity from 13 to 26 business jets. The project, valued at USD 1.9 million and contracted to MTCC, includes demolition of existing fire roads, subbase preparation, resurfacing, and installation of upgraded airfield lighting. The work is scheduled for completion within 180 days.

Alongside the apron inauguration, IASL held the groundbreaking ceremony for the terminal building expansion. The extension is designed to improve passenger flow and enhance handling capacity, particularly for private jet operations, which form a significant share of Maafaru’s traffic.