The Maldives, a nation of islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, relies heavily on air travel for connectivity, both domestically and internationally. As the aviation sector has drastically grown over the past years, the management and control of air traffic in Maldivian airspace have become increasingly important.

Previously, the air traffic services (ATS) were managed by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) as a department. However, recognizing the need for a specialized and dedicated entity to manage these critical functions, the Maldives National Air Traffic Service (MNATS) was established as a MACL subsidiary on 25th September 2023.

The organizational shift is similar to the structure found in most developed countries, where air navigation services are provided by an independent entity.

• The establishment of MNATS provides several advantages:
• Focused Management - A dedicated organization allows MNATS to prioritize air navigation services, resulting in more efficient operations and decision-making.
• Enhanced Safety and Efficiency - MNATS’ specialized enables investments in technology and innovations, improving airspace safety and operational efficiency.
• Regulatory Alignment - The formation of MNATS facilities closer alignment with international aviation regulations and standards, while enhancing the reputation of our services.

MNATS now serves as the primary organization responsible for managing and controlling air traffic in the Maldives airspace, playing a crucial role in supporting the country’s growing aviation sector.