MAAFARU AIRPORT ASSISTANCE

Controversy Maafaru International Airport

Destruction of endangered turtle nesting grounds

The airport was built in an area that was a major nesting ground for endangered turtles as Maafaru has had a long history of being a popular nesting ground endangered turtles.

On 9 April 2019, a green sea turtle that had come to Maafaru to lay its eggs, found the newly constructed runway of a brand new airport instead, and ended up laying her eggs on the tarmac. The turtle later died from the injuries.

Illegal export of coconut palms

The Maldives Customs Service stopped the illegal export of coconut palm trees from the Maafaru island uprooted as a direct result of the airport project. Maafaru islanders alerted customs after the Environment Protection Agency stopped the illegal uprooting of trees from the island.

EPA halts airport expansion project

On 29 December 2019, the Maldivian Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) halted the expansion project and rejected the Environmental Impact Assessment, giving the following reasons as justification in their report.

Fraud and corruption allegations

The contractor for the project, Singaporean company Tuff Infrastructure Pvt Ltd. is facing multiple allegations including failing to pay their subcontractors, using deception and sham projects to win the bid, violations of contract, and inflated costs. As a result, the project was under audit from the Anti-Corruption Commission of the Maldives. According to rumors, Regional Airports Director General Saamee Ageel is also accused of owning a private yacht which is currently being investigated by the Asset Recovery Commission of the Office of the President. Anti-Corruption Commission requested that the Regional Airports Deputy Director General Ahmed Mahreen be suspended. Anti-Corruption Commission also requested that payment to contractors for the Maafaru International Airport be suspended.

Public opposition to the project

There is online opposition to the expansion project including by the Maldivian environmentalist organisation SaveMaldives. The hashtag #SaveMaafaru has been used in regard to this opposition.

Facilities Maafaru International Airport

The airport is at an elevation of 2 metres (6 ft 7 in) above mean sea level. It has one runway which is 2,200 metres (7,218 ft) in length and 40 metres (131 ft) wide. The airport can accommodate six jets at any one time. The airport includes a passenger terminal and a VIP lounge, and is managed and maintained by the national airline Maldivian.

Why should you use JODOGO Airport Assistance?

• Avoid long lines and save time: JODOGO's Meet and Greet services help you bypass long queues at the airport, saving you valuable time and ensuring a seamless travel experience.
• Have a stress-free travel experience: JODOGO’s experienced and professional staff will handle every detail of your airport experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy your journey.
• Get personalized attention: JODOGO’s staff provides personalized attention and assistance, ensuring all your needs are met with care and efficiency.
• Enjoy a variety of services: JODOGO offers a variety of services to meet your needs, including Meet and Greet, porter assistance, fast-track check-in and security, and lounge access.
• Benefit from competitive rates: JODOGO offers competitive rates for its services, making it an affordable option for travelers. Enjoy 24/7 support—JODOGO is always available to assist you with your travel needs.
• Experience a smooth and efficient airport experience: JODOGO's staff is trained to deliver a smooth and efficient airport experience for every traveler.
• Feel confident and secure: JODOGO's knowledgeable and experienced staff ensures you are always in good hands.
• Relax and enjoy your trip: With JODOGO's assistance, you can relax and enjoy your journey, knowing your airport experience is fully taken care of.