Minister Ameen Dismisses Claims of Runway Extension & Reclamation at Dharavandhoo Airport

Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen has refuted circulating claims that the Government is pursuing a runway extension and land reclamation project at Baa Dharavandhoo Airport, stating that current development efforts are focused solely on upgrading terminal facilities and improving passenger services.

Minister Ameen said recent social media posts suggesting that a runway expansion project is underway and that such work could threaten Hanifaru Bay do not reflect the Government’s actual plans. He noted that the Administration’s immediate priority is to enhance terminal infrastructure, strengthen operational efficiency, and address long-standing service limitations at the airport.

He emphasised that no reclamation linked runway extension project is being implemented and that the information being shared online is inaccurate.

Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib also addressed the issue, explaining that while preliminary assessments for a potential reclamation concept were carried out last year, the Government has not taken any decision to proceed. He added that if such a proposal were under consideration, it would have been formally discussed with the Dharavandhoo Island Council.

Dharavandhoo Airport has undergone minimal upgrades since its opening 12 years ago, a matter frequently raised by residents and regional stakeholders. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has previously pledged to strengthen aviation infrastructure across the atolls, including Dharavandhoo, as part of broader efforts to improve connectivity and support regional development.

The Government maintains that the current phase of work is centred on improving passenger experience and operational capacity, with any future development decisions to be made in consultation with local communities and relevant authorities.