The government is advancing plans to increase flight connectivity to Gan International Airport in Addu City, according to Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, aiming to strengthen regional tourism and accessibility. The minister, addressing the media at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, described ongoing efforts to attract additional airlines to the country's southernmost international airport.
At present, SriLankan Airlines remains the sole operator serving Gan. Talks are underway with multiple airlines, including the minister, including low-cost carriers, to establish new routes. "Discussions have been held with approximately four to five airlines," Minister Thoriq stated. "Among these, deliberations included the potential resumption of Wizz Air's service, which remains suspended. In addition, meetings have taken place with executives from airlines currently operating in the Maldives, including Fly Dubai and Gulf Air, along with representatives from other existing carriers."
Officials are also in discussions with budget airlines to attract travellers during the summer season, according to the minister. Expanding flight access further, conversations have been initiated with major Middle Eastern carriers—key players in driving tourism to the Maldives, he added. To strengthen international partnerships, Minister Thoriq confirmed that memorandums of understanding (MOUs) had been signed with Emirates and Qatar Airways. Under these agreements, efforts will focus on increasing flight frequencies to the Maldives.
"We are working to increase the ease for airlines to provide services in the Maldives, examine how they can work with MMPRC [Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation] in marketing the Maldives, and increase the number of tourists coming to the Maldives," he said.
While flight expansion remains a priority, Minister Thoriq highlighted the need to improve Gan International Airport. Though the facility sees a steady influx of visitors daily, local residents have raised concerns over limited services compared to other international airports in the country. In response, the government has awarded the airport's redevelopment project to India-based Renaatus Projects, with construction now underway to enhance infrastructure and accessibility.