MPL CEO Highlights Growth in Sea-to-Air Cargo Services

Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), has announced that sea-to-air cargo services have been expanding, highlighting this initiative as a key driver for economic growth.

In collaboration with Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways, MPL has formalised agreements to enhance its sea-to-air cargo offerings. This service allows goods to be transported by sea to the Maldives and then shipped onward by air, reducing transit times.

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Commenting on the success of the initiative, Wajeeh revealed that within just two days of launching, MPL had dispatched seven 40-foot containers to Europe. He emphasised that the service, already adopted by several countries, presents numerous opportunities for growth. Wajeeh also expressed appreciation for the government’s support and efficient coordination with airports, which has enabled smooth operations.

MPL introduced sea-to-air cargo services in March, with the first shipment—a consignment of garments from Bangladesh to Germany—dispatched in May via Turkish Airlines.

The sea-to-air transhipment model is designed to reduce the time typically required for maritime shipping, providing faster logistics solutions for the commercial sector. This hybrid approach is expected to increase the frequency of flights to international destinations, particularly in Europe, and bolster the Maldives’ role in global trade.