Operations to Shift to New Hanimaadhoo Airport Terminal Ahead of Official Opening

Operations at Hanimaadhoo International Airport will be transferred from the existing terminal to the ground floor of the new terminal starting 15 October 2025, the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) announced on Tuesday. The move marks a key step in preparations for the official opening of the new terminal scheduled for next month.

According to MACL, the transition is required to comply with Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) standards, which stipulate that all Code C aircraft can only operate on the new runway once it is fully cleared and in use. To obtain clearance for the new runway, the old terminal and nearby structures must be dismantled and the surrounding area cleared.

Information regarding the transition was shared with the Hanimaadhoo Island Council and other relevant government ministries on 9 October 2025, ensuring all stakeholders are informed ahead of the operational shift.

As part of the final preparations, MACL has also initiated the Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) process. This includes rigorous testing of terminal equipment and machinery, finalizing service procedures, and conducting staff training to ensure a smooth transition.

The ORAT phase is designed to ensure that all operational, technical, and safety standards — both national and international — are met before the terminal becomes fully operational.

The new Hanimaadhoo International Airport terminal, developed as part of a major northern regional aviation upgrade, is expected to significantly enhance passenger experience and connectivity once officially opened next month.