Maafaru International Airport has officially reopened for international operations following a significant runway expansion project. The airport, which had its international services suspended in May 2023, has completed the redevelopment to enhance its capacity.

Originally opened in 2019, Maafaru Airport is strategically located near several luxury resorts and began welcoming international flights the following year. The recent project expanded the airport's runway from 2.2 kilometers to 2.8 kilometers, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft, including the Boeing 777-ER300.

Island Aviation, which manages Maafaru Airport, also announced plans to expand the airport's apron. Once completed, the airport will have parking capacity for 26 jets, doubling its current capacity of 13.

As the second largest airport in the Maldives after Velana International Airport, Maafaru Airport handles an average of 700 air traffic movements annually. The airport's expansion was funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), which provided $60 million in non-reimbursable financial aid, with the project contracted to Singaporean company Tuff Offshore. Additional funding from ADFD was secured to further enhance the airport's facilities.

The reopening of Maafaru International Airport is expected to boost tourism and enhance connectivity for the region, making it a key player in the Maldives’ aviation landscape.