Air travel measures tightened as haze reduces visibility across Maldives

Air travel operations have been adjusted due to worsening air pollution and reduced visibility across parts of the Maldives, prompting the introduction of Special Visual Flight Rules (SVFR).

Thick smoke and haze have significantly reduced distance visibility in Male' City. The IQA recorded an air quality index of 84 on Saturday, while IQAir measured PM2.5 levels, fine particulate matter made up of dust, smoke, and chemical pollutants, at concentrations indicating unhealthy air. Air pollution reached 27 micrograms per cubic meter on Saturday, which is 5.4 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline.

In a statement, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) said visibility-related safety measures are activated whenever air pollution or heavy rain affects flight operations. Due to the current smoke conditions, MACL has temporarily suspended standard Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and shifted to SVFR procedures to provide pilots with additional support. The rule applies when visibility drops below five kilometers. MACL noted that the same protocol has been used in previous similar situations.

Last Wednesday saw some of the worst air quality levels recorded in several regions. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) forecasts smoky conditions from Thursday through Monday.

According to HPA, the most severe pollution levels were observed in Vilimale', Laamu Atoll, and Dhaalu Atoll, where readings reached the red-alert category. At this level, the entire population faces increased risks of adverse health effects, including serious respiratory and cardiovascular complications.

Maldives is experiencing seasonal haze carried by northeasterly winds from India, which often contains pollutants from agricultural burning and urban smog.