In a groundbreaking development for the Maldives' regional air connectivity, Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) has officially opened Muli Airport, marking a historic milestone as the first airport in Meemu Atoll. This transformative project is set to reshape domestic travel across the central atolls, enhancing access to one of the Maldives’ lesser-explored regions and unlocking new opportunities for tourism, business, and community growth.
A Vision Takes Flight
The Muli Airport, located on the island of M. Muli, began construction in August 2021. After years of meticulous planning and development, the project reached a major milestone on 25 April 2025, when a successful regulatory test flight was conducted, signaling the airport’s readiness to take off into a new chapter.
As of May 2025, the airport is fully operational and ready to welcome domestic commercial flights, with RACL extending the runway—literally and figuratively—for key Maldivian carriers: Maldivian Airlines, Villa Air, and Manta Air.
Strategic Infrastructure for Regional Growth
The newly opened Muli Airport features a 1,200-meter-long and 30-meter-wide runway, capable of accommodating a range of domestic aircraft. With a total project investment of MVR 221 million, the airport is a major infrastructure addition to the region, designed not only to improve transportation links but also to serve as a catalyst for socio-economic development in Meemu Atoll.
Opening the Gateway to Meemu
Until now, Meemu Atoll—known for its serene islands, untouched reefs, and potential for sustainable tourism—has remained relatively off the radar for many travelers due to limited accessibility. The opening of Muli Airport is set to change that, placing Meemu on the domestic air map and offering travelers and locals faster, more efficient access to this pristine atoll.
The airport will enhance connectivity for residents, reduce reliance on long sea transfers, and open doors for eco-tourism, resort development, and small business ventures, injecting new vitality into the local economy.
A Step Toward Decentralization
This latest move by RACL reflects a broader commitment to decentralizing air travel infrastructure across the Maldives. By enabling regional hubs like Muli to flourish, the nation moves closer to a more balanced and accessible domestic aviation network, better serving the needs of both urban and remote island communities.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead With Muli Airport now operational, anticipation is building for the commencement of scheduled domestic services. The collaboration between RACL and local carriers is expected to bring increased passenger flow, improved inter-atoll connections, and a renewed spotlight on the hidden gems of Meemu Atoll. As the first jets descend onto Muli’s brand-new runway, the message is clear: Meemu is open, connected, and ready to soar.
Muli Airport Opens: A New Era for Meemu Atoll
In a landmark moment for regional connectivity, the Maldives welcomes its newest domestic hub—Muli Airport, the first-ever airport in Meemu Atoll. Built with an investment of MVR 221 million and featuring a 1,200-meter runway, the airport promises to boost tourism, empower local communities, and enhance air travel access across the central atolls. With commercial flights now operational, Meemu steps onto the map as the Maldives’ next frontier for exploration and development.