New terminal project aims to ease congestion at Maldives’ busiest domestic airport

After more than a decade without progress, a major project to expand and modernise the terminal at Dharavandhoo Airport has officially been launched.

The project was inaugurated Wednesday, alongside the signing of an agreement to transfer operational responsibility for the airport to Island Aviation. The agreement was signed by Director General of the Transport Ministry Ahmed Shameem on behalf of the government, and Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas on behalf of Island Aviation Services Ltd (IASL).

IASL said the terminal development marks a significant step toward elevating domestic air transport services. With the handover, Island Aviation becomes both the operator of Dharavandhoo Airport and the airline serving it, enabling the company to streamline operations and improve passenger experience.

Designed around people. Inspired by nature. Built for the future.

Take a first look at the new Dharavandhoo Airport terminal, featuring expanded spaces, seamless passenger flow, modern check-in experiences, and a brand-new executive lounge.#MaldivianAero pic.twitter.com/oARLTOy6sE

— IASLaero (@IASLaero) April 1, 2026

Under the project, the terminal will be expanded from 959 sqm to 1,874 sqm, reducing processing times for arrivals, departures, check‑in and baggage handling. IASL currently operates more than eight flights a day to Dharavandhoo, serving resorts, inhabited islands and guesthouses across the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The new terminal design prioritises passenger comfort, featuring sheltered waiting areas inspired by Maldivian marine life, an enlarged arrivals hall, and conveyor belts for faster baggage delivery. Passenger handling capacity will increase from 80 to 175, supported by self‑check‑in kiosks, a larger departure hall and upgraded security systems.

Additional improvements include an expanded boxing area, dedicated facilities for children and naturally lit waiting spaces.

“The development of the Dharavandhoo terminal will strengthen the aviation sector and enhance the quality of service provided to tourists in the region. The new terminal and executive lounge will improve connectivity and deliver the reliable, high‑quality hospitality our customers expect,” said Maldivian Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas.

Concerns over the airport’s condition have been raised repeatedly in recent years. In 2023, the Dharavandhoo Council warned that the airport had seen no development for a decade despite being the busiest domestic airport in the country. The council said airlines had complained that the outdated facilities were affecting the experience of tourists travelling to the many resorts in Baa Atoll.