The JV will commence operations by early June at Malé International airport, and will also provide support at Gan airport, as well as offering specially negotiated rates for local hotels and tours.
Charlie Mularski, Universal’s regional Asia Pacific Vice President, said that the location of the operation was hoped to boost the local economy by providing new jobs, and improve international standards and training for aviation throughout the country. “We are looking forward to working closely with the Maldives government to continue to identify ways in which it can further improve the country’s aviation infrastructure, leading to further growth and development,” Mularski commented.
Universal recently started providing customer service and ramp safety training to Thai ground handler PGGS, which operatesat Koh Samui International airport. Here, Universal will help to improve aircraft parking capacity and arrangements at the airport, which are currently restricted, by providing training and supervision. Said Sumalee Chaitientong, VP for ancillary revenues at Koh Samui airport, “This will make Samui friendlier to overnight parking during peak seasons, ensuring Samui can continue to serve as a premier destination in southeast Asia while attracting more business aviation operators.”
