Government to Clarify Reasons for Restricting Maldivian Soldiers from Piloting Dornier Aircraft

The Maldivian government has decided to explain its stance on not allowing local soldiers to operate the Dornier aircraft, previously flown by Indian soldiers stationed in the Maldives. After President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu took office, Indian personnel operating the aircraft were sent back, and the Dornier was handed over to civilians sent by India.

Although Maldivian soldiers completed specialized training to pilot the Dornier, they were not granted the opportunity to operate the aircraft. The Ministry of Defence had initially appealed to the High Court following an order from the Information Commissioner's Office to provide an explanation for this restriction, but the case was withdrawn at the request of President Muizzu.

It remains unclear if the trained Maldivian soldiers are currently serving in the armed forces, leaving questions about the future operational control of the Dornier aircraft. The government’s forthcoming clarification is expected to shed light on the issue.