The Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) has celebrated its third anniversary on November 18, 2023, with various achievements and initiatives that showcase its progress and vision.
RACL has successfully completed the first phase of the Hanimaadhoo Airport expansion project, which includes the construction of a new runway, a new terminal building, an apron, and a taxiway. The new runway, which is 2,200 meters long and 45 meters wide, is capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and the Boeing 777.
The new terminal building, which has a floor area of 9,000 square meters, can handle up to 1,000 passengers per hour. The new apron, which has a capacity of six aircraft parking stands, and the new taxiway, which connects the runway and the apron, are also ready for operation.
The Hanimaadhoo Airport expansion project is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Maldives, with a total cost of USD 63 million.
The company also announced that it has commenced the second phase of the project, which involves the installation of air navigation equipment, security systems, baggage handling systems, and other facilities. The second phase is expected to be completed by the end of 2023, and the airport will be officially inaugurated as an international airport in early 2024.
Another milestone achieved by RACL is the launch of night flights to Kulhudhuffushi Airport, which started on December 1, 2023. The company has installed runway lights and other equipment to enable night operations, which will boost the tourism and economic activities in the northern region of the Maldives.
The Kulhudhuffushi Airport, which was opened in 2018, is one of the six regional airports managed by RACL, along with Dharavandhoo Airport, Fuvahmulah Airport, Ifuru Airport, Kaadedhdhoo Airport, and Kooddoo Airport.
In addition to these achievements, RACL has also initiated several programs and activities to mark its third anniversary, such as a tree planting campaign, a blood donation drive, a staff appreciation event, and a social media contest. The company has also launched a new website and a mobile app, which provide information and services to the public and the stakeholders.
The company has expressed its gratitude to the government, the ADB, the Civil Aviation Authority of Maldives, the Maldives Airports Company Limited, the regional airport operators, the airlines, the travel agents, the local councils, the media, and the public for their support and cooperation.