The Maldives has introduced a new regulatory requirement mandating all airlines to submit a validated passenger list within two hours of an aircraft accident. The measure is part of the newly enforced Maldivian Civil Aviation Regulation MCAR-13A, issued by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority and effective from June 12, 2025.
According to the regulation, both local and foreign airlines operating flights to or from the Maldives must be able to swiftly produce a verified list of all passengers on board in the event of an accident. The regulation also requires the immediate availability of information on any dangerous goods carried on the aircraft.
This development aims to strengthen the country’s aviation response system, ensuring that authorities, medical teams, and family liaison units can act promptly and effectively. To further support families, airlines are also required to collect emergency contact information from passengers at the time of booking, which must be used exclusively in the case of an accident and not for commercial purposes.
The MCAR-13A regulation reflects the Maldives' commitment to enhancing aviation safety and aligns with international standards, particularly those outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).