Mohamed Naeem Hussain, the first air traffic controller of the Maldives, has passed away at the age of 74.

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) announced his passing in a social media post, describing it as a major loss to the Maldivian aviation sector. The company said Naeem’s contributions to the industry would be remembered with gratitude.

Naeem was among the first group of professionals trained ahead of the official opening of Velana International Airport. He went on to serve as the country’s first air traffic controller and played an important role in the early development of the Maldives’ aviation industry.

His work laid the foundation for air traffic services in the country, and his legacy continues to be recognised within the aviation community.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu also conveyed condolences on Naeem's passing on social media.