The government has extended the deadline for submitting proposals to provide helicopter services in the Maldives, giving interested parties additional time to apply.
The opportunity was first announced by the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation on 22 January, with an initial submission deadline of 25 March. This has now been extended to 20 April 2026.
According to the Ministry, the extension was granted in response to requests from interested companies, many of whom are facing operational and logistical challenges linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Under the proposed framework, service providers will be required to include emergency medical evacuation services as part of their operations. Operators must provide up to 50 hours of medical evacuation services free of charge during the first three years. In cases involving search and rescue operations, the government will cover costs based on agreed terms and conditions.
The Ministry stated that selected operators will be granted permission to operate in the Maldives for a maximum period of 10 years. Applicants must comply with all local and international aviation regulations and are required to form a joint venture with a local aviation company. Additionally, interested providers must have at least five years of experience in helicopter services.
Once the submission deadline closes on 20 April, proposals will be reviewed, with approvals expected by mid-June. Successful operators will be required to commence services no later than 1 November 2026.
