President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has pledged that the long-delayed Magoodhoo Airport project in Faafu atoll will be completed within the next 12 months.

Speaking during a meeting with residents of Magoodhoo island of Faafu atoll, the president assured the community that both ongoing and newly launched development projects on the island will proceed without further delays.

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to delivering results, stating that the airport will be operational by September 2026 at the latest.

The construction of Magoodhoo Airport was initially contracted to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. However, progress on the project stalled early in Muizzu’s term, prompting protests from island residents concerned about the lack of momentum.

The airport project includes the construction of a 1,800-meter long, 30-meter wide runway, along with a taxiway, apron, fire pad, passenger terminal, air traffic control tower, and a fire station. The development also involves reclaiming 42.6 hectares of land, installing 2,098 meters of rock revetment and 1,400 meters of geobag revetment. The airport is being designed to accommodate jet aircraft, aiming to boost connectivity and economic development in the region.

Muizzu noted that MTCC is engaged in multiple projects across the country, but reiterated that if the company were to concentrate its resources solely on Magoodhoo, the airport could be completed in just two to three months. Despite this, he affirmed the government's timeline of one year, saying it reflects a realistic and manageable schedule given MTCC’s wider workload.

Highlighting his governance approach, Muizzu said decisions are made based on public consultation and the real needs of communities. He said that when he makes promises, he makes them from the bottom of his heart.

Meanwhile, airport development is also underway on the nearby island of Nilandhoo island of Faafu atoll, raising questions about how both projects will serve the atoll’s transportation needs and whether the proximity of the two facilities will impact long-term viability and resource allocation.