Velana Airport New Terminal Opening Delayed

The opening of the new international terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) has been rescheduled for mid-2025. This follows recommendations from the Airline Operators Committee (AOC) to ensure a flawless experience for all passengers.

Speaking to the parliamentary committee, the managing director of MACL, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed stated that though 82% of the terminal is complete and some parts of the terminal could come into operations this year, it has been decided to defer opening the entire terminal completely. In doing so, it would finish the final stages of the project in a perfect manner to avoid the inconvenience that could occur in the event of some technical glitches.

It's going great at the terminal and should come onstream right on time," said Shareef. However, he said AOC has indicated a little delay would permit completion of the technical details in regard to smoothness and success during the launch.

Being an advisory body that represents airlines operating in the Maldives, following ICAO guidelines, ensures that the best possible airport operations are maintained for all. With their endorsement, MACL will be confident that a much better travel experience awaits visitors and locals alike as a result of delay.

The new terminal, part of which the government initially planned to open this year, will now be completed and ready for its full grand debut during the mid-2025 season to further cement the Maldives' status as a world-class destination.