The national airline operator has been handed management of the privately-developed Madivaru domestic airport.
An agreement was signed between Island Aviation Services and local tourism company Kuredu Holdings on Monday (17 January). The companies have started preparations for the official opening and scheduled flights are due to start in February, according to Island Aviation.
Developed by Chinese subcontractor Beijing Urban Construction Group with a 1,200-metre runway, Madivaru is the first airport in Lhaviyani atoll. Kuredu Holdings, which operates resorts in the north-central atoll, reportedly spent US$11 million on the project.
Island Aviation currently operates domestic airports in Baa Dharavandhoo, Thaa Thimarafushi and Raa Ifuru along with an international airport in Noonu Maafaru.
