Maafaru International Airport (MIA) reached a new milestone in its operational journey on Tuesday with the successful landing of a wide-body Emirates Boeing 777, a landmark moment signalling the airport’s readiness to enter the next phase of growth in international aviation.
The aircraft touched down as part of an ongoing certification process facilitated by the Abu Dhabi Fund, which aims to assess the airport’s preparedness to handle large, long-haul aircraft. The test flight marks the first time a wide-body jet has landed at Maafaru, positioning the airport to play a bigger role in the Maldives’ expanding aviation landscape.
The certification involves comprehensive evaluations of infrastructure and operational readiness. These include runway stress testing, verification of ground handling capabilities such as refuelling and baggage services, and checks on air traffic control and navigational systems to ensure alignment with global aviation safety standards.
Significant infrastructure enhancements have been made to support this milestone. The airport’s runway—originally 2.2 kilometres long—has been extended to 2.8 kilometres, enabling it to safely accommodate larger aircraft like the Boeing 777. In tandem, the aircraft parking apron has also been expanded. Previously limited to 13 jets, the upgraded apron can now accommodate up to 26 aircraft at once.
These developments come as part of a broader strategy to transform Maafaru into a premier entry point for international travellers, especially those visiting the Maldives’ luxury resorts. In 2024, Maafaru recorded 98 private jet arrivals, making it the second-busiest private aviation hub in the country after Velana International Airport.
Located in close proximity to some of the country’s most exclusive destinations—such as Velaa Private Island, Soneva Jani, and Cheval Blanc Randheli—Maafaru has emerged as a preferred gateway for affluent tourists seeking direct access to luxury in the Maldives.
With wide-body certification now within reach, Maafaru International Airport is poised to play an increasingly vital role in boosting high-end tourism and enhancing the Maldives’ connectivity with global markets.
