AAI to Study Maldives' Request for Indian Companies to Manage Hanimadhoo International Airport
The Maldives government has requested assistance from Indian companies to manage the recently upgraded Hanimadhoo International Airport. This request, made during the airport's inauguration, marks a significant shift in bilateral relations, coming a decade after the controversial ouster of the Indian conglomerate GMR from the Male International Airport project. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been tasked by the Centre to study the proposal for engaging Indian operators. India previously supported the redevelopment of Hanimadhoo airport with an $800 million line of credit issued by EXIM Bank of India.
Key Points
- Maldives has invited Indian companies to manage the Hanimadhoo International Airport following its recent upgrade.
- The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is evaluating the request for engaging Indian private or state operators.
- The Hanimadhoo airport redevelopment was funded by an $800 million line of credit from India's EXIM Bank.
- This move signals a potential reset in aviation cooperation after the 2012 termination of GMR's contract in Male.
Exam Facts
- The Hanimadhoo International Airport upgrade features a 2,465-metre runway capable of accommodating Airbus A320 aircraft.
- The EXIM Bank of India provided an $800 million line of credit for the airport's redevelopment work.
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