A significant upgrade has been established at Velana International Airport with the inauguration of its new cargo terminal by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu today. Developed by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), this cutting-edge facility marks a substantial advancement in cargo operations.
Effective immediately, all cargo will be processed through the state-of-the-art terminal. Following the inauguration, President Muizzu conducted thorough inspections. The new cargo terminal boasts a threefold increase in capacity compared to its predecessor. The existing terminal’s capacity was 50,000 tonnes per year, while the new terminal increases it to 120,000 tonnes—an impressive 50% boost.
Prioritizing environmental sustainability, the facility features eco-friendly vehicles and modern amenities. Additionally, a three-story office building with 55 spaces for airlines and brokers is situated within the premises.
Key enhancements in the import area include the introduction of several one-stop areas such as General Cargo, Perishable Cargo, a Ballmate Platform, a Vaccination Room, Goods Detention Rooms, and a Cargo Valuable Room.
In the export area, new facilities include a Transshipment Screening Area and an Export Operation Office. The upgraded equipment inventory comprises three new X-ray machines, 12 tow trucks, six forklifts, four cranes, an Automobile Platform, and a Roller Conveyor.
The operational capacity has surged from 12 flights per hour to an impressive 36 flights per hour, reflecting a remarkable 200% increase. Import and export loading capabilities have also been elevated.
Furthermore, the workforce has expanded by 42%, accompanied by a 50% increase in overall capacity. Velana International Airport’s new cargo terminal sets a new standard for efficiency, capacity, and modernized cargo handling.
Up next for the airport development work is the new passenger terminal, which is scheduled to be opened in 2025. It will accommodate up to 7.5 million passengers annually, and further developments include aero boarding bridges and state-of-the-art baggage handling systems.
Velana International Airport was opened in 1960 and was constructed by Maldivian citizens as voluntary work under the guidance of the then Prime Minister, Ibrahim Nasir. The first commercial plane to land was an Air Ceylon Flight on April 10, 1962. Later, it underwent further development under the leadership of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and President Abdulla Yaameen. The current government has announced a 20-year master plan that aims to make the airport one of the best in the region, ultimately boosting the economy.