Southernmost four atolls connected via air

Air connectivity has been established for the Maldives’ four southernmost atolls, with facilities in place to accommodate small aircraft.

National airline, Maldivian, on Friday, said it will begin operating flights linking Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Addu City, and Fuvahmulah City starting Sunday.

The southern connectivity project was launched during a special ceremony held at Addu City airport on Friday evening. The ceremony was attended by Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen alongside other cabinet ministers and senior government officials.

Beginning in Gan, Addu, the first of many milestones across the South ✈️

Highlights from our South Connectivity Inaugural Ceremony, marking the start of enhanced regional connectivity.#MaldivianAero pic.twitter.com/3tWhSTuSPW

— MaldivianAero (@MaldivianAero) January 30, 2026

At the ceremony, Transport Minister Ameen handed over the permit authorizing the southern connectivity operations to Maldivian. The document was received by Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Island Aviation Services.

The operations are being launched after provisions were put in place for Maldivian’s smaller aircraft to use land-based runways.

Speaking at the ceremony, Iyas characterized the launch of the operations as a major convenience for the inhabitants of these four atolls. He added that these flights will be held daily.

Iyas, describing the operations as a major advancement in aviation, stated that they will enhance people-to-people exchanges among the four atolls and promote social and economic development in the region.

Moreover, he stressed that the operations would further drive tourism in the region.

The southern operations are being commenced after President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu recently revealed that his administration is researching the feasibility of developing airstrips on islands to accommodate small aircraft landings instead of increasing airports. 

Maldivian has opened bookings for these flights.

The fares are as follows:

• Gan to Fuvamulah – MVR 500 one-way
• Gan to Kadedhdhoo – MVR 900 one-way
• Gan to Kooddoo – MVR 900 one-way
• Fuvahmulah to Kaadedhdhoo – MVR 650 one-way
• Fuvahmulah to Kooddoo – MVR 650 one-way

DHC-6-300 twin otters aircrafts, which has a capacity of around 15 people, will be utilized for these operations.