The airport development project in Gdh. Thinadhoo has been delayed due to the contractor's failure to submit the necessary reports. During a visit to the island in February 2024, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Construction Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthhalib signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thailand's Pan Pacific Company Limited to oversee the project.

Despite more than a year having passed, no further details regarding the project have been provided. In an attempt to obtain information, local media outlet Mihaaru filed a request under the Right to Information (RTI) Act on December 25, 2024. However, the matter had to be escalated to the Information Commissioner's Office before the ministry released any information on Thursday.

The ministry explained that the agreement was signed following the submission of a proposal by the contractor as part of a public sector investment project. However, progress has stalled because the contractor has not yet submitted the required technical and financial proposals.

Despite sending six inquiries to the ministry, Mihaaru received no further details. Minister Muthhalib had previously stated that the contract would only be finalized once the technical and financial capabilities of the company were verified.

During the MoU signing ceremony, Muthhalib emphasized that the government would not bear any costs for the construction of the airport, with all expenses to be covered by the investors. The agreement also includes plans to invest in the tourism sector and other economic activities in the island's region once the airport is completed in the Thinadhoo lagoon.

Muthhalib highlighted that the lack of visible development in Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, despite its resources, is due to years of governmental neglect. He argued that the addition of an airport is crucial for the region’s development. According to him, the new airport will be able to accommodate large aircraft, and infrastructure such as a flying pool, cargo services, and a fuel farm will also be established.

Along with the airport, the contractor proposed the development of 12 resorts in the area. The minister noted that the addition of many hotel beds would bring significant changes to Huvadhoo atoll.