Manta Air’s plan to introduce scheduled flights to Maafaru International Airport faces delays in securing operational clearance from Island Aviation Services Limited (IAS). The airline submitted for slot in early December and despite follow-ups with IAS and the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, the airline has yet to receive the green light.
The plan to launch flight to Maafaru comes amid growing demand from luxury resort operators, guesthouse businesses, and local communities eager for enhanced connectivity. Manta Air’s Deputy CEO, Ahmed Maumoon, underscored the economic importance of increased flights, arguing that regular operations would boost tourism, provide convenience to locals, and improve the airport’s financial performance.
IAS Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas has clarified that Manta Air’s application was declined due to space constraints, with current slots set for private jets. He added that planned expansions of the airport’s apron and terminal facilities aim to address these limitations, although timelines for completion remain unclear. Maumoon remains skeptical; He argued that ATR turboprop operations, which require less time and space for turnaround, could feasibly coexist with the existing private jet movements.
Maafaru International Airport is currently undergoing a significant development project, including a runway and apron expansion, to enhance its capacity and accommodate larger aircraft.
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