The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has formally assumed control of nine domestic airports, after the government’s decision last month to consolidate the Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) with MACL.

This is the first occasion in history that MACL’s portfolio reaches beyond Velana International Airport (VIA), the nation's main aviation center.

The initiative aims to improve operational efficiency, decrease state spending, and boost airport services throughout the atolls.

MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed has initiated inspections of the recently acquired airports, along with executive and technical teams.

The company sent a team to Fuvahmulah Airport last week to evaluate its state and engage with staff and stakeholders regarding development requirements.

Officials have characterized the merger as a component of the government's wider effort to optimize state-owned enterprises, anticipating considerable savings and enhanced management within the consolidated framework.

Besides managing current facilities, MACL will also supervise new aviation initiatives. One of the initial projects is the airport construction at Fainu in Raa Atoll, which will take place under the company’s oversight.

Officials anticipate that this centralized model will provide a more robust and economical infrastructure for the expanding aviation industry of the country.