Dharavandhoo Airport begins new chapter with terminal development project

Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL), operator of Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, today announced the handover of Dharavandhoo Airport to IASL and the launch of a landmark terminal development project at Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV), marking a new era of passenger experience in Baa Atoll.

Delivered as part of a national initiative led by the Government of the Maldives to strengthen aviation infrastructure, the project sees IASL as both airport operator and airline serving DRV, uniquely positioned to deliver an integrated upgrade that places passengers at the heart of every decision.

The development will nearly double the terminal’s total built-up area, from 959 sqm to 1,874 sqm, substantially increasing passenger-handling capacity across arrival, departure, check-in, and baggage-processing zones. Dharavandhoo Airport currently handles 8+ daily flights, connecting local communities and travellers to resorts and guest houses across the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Dharavandhoo Airport was officially handed over to Island Aviation Services Limited today. On behalf of the Government, the agreement was signed by Ahmed Shameem, Director General of the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, and on behalf of IASL, by Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas. This marks a significant step in aligning airport operations with IASL’s broader strategy to improve connectivity.

A Terminal Built Around People

Key upgrades include:

• Architecture inspired by local marine life, paired with a climate-responsive sheltered arrival and

departure experience and comfortable shaded outdoor waiting areas designed for ease and comfort

in a tropical climate.

• Expanded Arrival Hall, including the installation of a baggage conveyor belt, creating a more spacious

arrival area designed for smooth and efficient passenger flow, along with upgraded facilities that

enhance comfort and convenience after disembarkation.

• Expanded and upgraded check-in area featuring self-check-in kiosks, enabling faster processing,

reduced queues, and a more flexible and efficient travel experience for passengers.

• Expanded departure hall creating an open and spacious pre-boarding area enhanced by natural light

and warm finishes for a calmer atmosphere. The upgrade includes modern security screening and

three boarding gates, increasing passenger handling capacity from 80 to over 175.

• Enlarged baggage sort-out area, significantly expanding operational capacity and improving overall

baggage-handling efficiency.

• Dedicated baby-care facilities for travelling families, offering thoughtfully designed spaces that

respond to real passenger needs.

• Designed open areas open to the sky, air, and horizon; offering more than just a waiting space,

creating a refreshing and uplifting environment for passengers. A Dedicated Space to Pause, Refresh, and Depart in Style

A centrepiece of the development is the brand-new Executive Lounge. Key highlights include:

• A dedicated facility offering passengers a calm and elevated pause before departure.

• Over 75 seats designed for privacy, comfort, and ease across premium seating zones

• Curated refreshments and services all in one place, delivering an elevated lounge experience befitting the world-class resort destinations in Baa Atoll. Uniquely Positioned to Drive Growth. As both the operators of Dharavandhoo Airport and an Airline connecting it to the rest of the Maldives, IASL’s dual role delivers distinct advantages for every passenger:

• Aligned airport and airline operations that maximise convenience, consistency, and quality across the full travel experience.

• 4+ daily flights operated by Maldivian to and from DRV, giving the airline direct insight into passenger

needs

• Serving both residents and international tourists, ensuring the airport functions as a true community and premium tourism gateway

• Part of a national initiative led by the Government of the Maldives to strengthen regional aviation infrastructure and enhance connectivity to key tourism destinations.

• Aligned with IASL's broader vision to support sustainable growth, raise service standards, and deliver an experience that carries the warmth of Maldivian hospitality from the first step to the last.

With this development, Dharavandhoo Airport is well-placed to meet the growing needs of travellers and the communities of Baa Atoll — delivering better facilities, smoother connections, and a passenger experience as warm as the welcome that awaits them at their destination.