Developing and operating airports is a high-cost endeavor, and it is far more important to find ways to generate revenue from existing facilities rather than developing additional airports, according to Mohamed Firaq, CEO of Inner Maldives.
Firaq made these remarks during Adhadhu’s "Viya" program, where he shared his perspective on the future of the Maldivian aviation industry and the further development of the air transport sector.
Firaq noted that the Maldives currently has a sufficient number of airports relative to its geographical area. He argued that it would be more prudent to find ways to monetize existing airports rather than continuing to develop new ones without a comprehensive plan.
He suggested that with a proper strategic plan and necessary adjustments, the utility of both existing international and domestic airports could be enhanced.
"For instance, there are ways we can benefit by partnering with foreign parties for MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services, or by establishing partnerships to use these sites as hubs. We can find paths to profitability by strategically internationalizing domestic airports in their own right," he said.
He further stated that with a sound utilization plan, the aviation industry has the potential to generate revenue comparable to that of the tourism sector. However, he emphasized that this can only be achieved by prioritizing national interest and making difficult decisions.
Addressing the underutilization of airports, Firaq identified the lack of domestic connectivity and the high cost of internal flights as the biggest obstacles.
Firaq highlighted the connectivity issue by citing Gan International Airport. Excluding Velana International Airport, Gan is the oldest international airport in the country. Despite being international for 18 years, SriLankan Airlines remains the only carrier operating scheduled international flights there.
He noted that until a recent agreement between SriLankan Airlines and Maldivian enabled seaplane connections to Huvadhu Atoll, passengers arriving in Gan had no viable way to travel to other Maldivian destinations.
Regarding the issue of high costs, Firaq stated that a solution requires tourism businesses, tour operators, and airlines within the value chain to align and agree on lowering prices for tourists. He noted that resorts must look beyond individual interests and work toward reducing costs for visitors.
Current statistics show that the Maldives has five international airports and 15 domestic airports in operation. Plans for an additional 12 airports have been announced, with construction already underway on several of them.
