Maldives’ first air traffic controller Naeem dies at 74

Mohamed Naeem Hussain, Maldives’ first air traffic controller, has passed away.

Naeem died at the age of 74 on Sunday. His funeral was held at Hulhumale’ cemetery mosque on Monday.

Industry officials have described Naeem’s passing as a huge loss to the Maldivian aviation industry.

Naeem retired several years ago. He was among the first air traffic controllers trained in the Maldives for the inauguration of Hulhulé Airport 59 years ago.

Taking on the role after the Maldives’ first air traffic controller, Naeem performed his critical duties in the absence of a tower and modern resources.