Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has described the launch of seaplane services to Velidhoo, Noonu Atoll, as a new link that would promote tourism and support business transactions.
He made the statement while speaking at the ceremony held to launch the service.
In his address, the Minister said the service would significantly reduce travel time and ticket costs from the airport to the island, providing convenience for islanders, businesspeople, and tourists. Noting that Velidhoo is an industrial island where a lot of business is conducted, he said the newly launched service would bring great benefit to the community.
Speaking at the same ceremony, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen highlighted the importance of expanding both the sea and air transport networks for the development of local tourism and infrastructure. He noted that while seaplane operations are costly, they are crucial for developing the atolls and promoting local tourism.
While the establishment of seaplane services in Velidhoo is a pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to the people of Velidhoo, its fulfilment will bring great happiness to both the people of Velidhoo and Fodhdhoo nearby, Ameen added. With seaplane services now offered in three locations including Velidhoo, Thoddoo is expected to become the fourth, with services set to launch next month, he revealed.
Island Aviation Service Limited (IASL)’s Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas said ticket prices for domestic flights are based less on profit and more on affordability. While some complain that the domestic flight fares are unaffordable, Iyas said the current prices are fair based on today’s situation. He added that the service would strengthen connections between Velidhoo, Fodhdhoo, and nearby islands, boosting the local economy and tourism. The government also plans to expand seaplane services to additional islands in the future to further enhance connectivity across the country, Iyas added.