Maldivian has made significant progress in recovering from years of financial difficulties and heavy debt, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has said.

Speaking at the reopening of the airline’s upgraded seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, Ameen said Maldivian had faced major financial losses, lost contracts and suspended operations between 2018 and 2023 due to poor management.

He said the Government had introduced improvements to the airline’s management and operations after taking office in 2023, bringing the company back on a path to recovery within the past year.

Ameen said the national airline should maintain a strong financial position and high operational standards, describing Maldivian as a source of national pride.

He added that the Government was working to modernise the airline’s seaplane services and prioritise employee welfare and benefits. Two plots of land have been allocated for staff housing, with work on the project expected to begin soon.

Ameen also said plans were under way to construct a new building that would reflect the strength and standing of the country’s aviation industry.