Maldives Government takes over Male airport management

The Maldives Government has taken over management of Male airport after canceling its agreement with the Indian contractor.

GMR and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad had won a joint contract in 2010 to operate the airport for 25 years, which the Maldives Government cancelled due to “legal, technical and economic issues”.

GMR challenged the move calling it unlawful, but Singapore’s Supreme Court ruled in favour of the government’s decision to cancel the US$500 million contract. 

Mohamed Ibrahim, Managing Director of the Maldivian Airport Company, said the takeover of the airport from the Indian firm would be “seamless”, with all staff being retained on the same salary package.

“We have already spoken to international airlines and assured them that there will be no disruptions,” he told AFP.

By Mark Elliott, 9 December 2012, Sunday 9:16 AM