In a landmark announcement tonight, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) revealed a visionary 20-year master plan aimed at elevating Velana International Airport to world-class standards.
The unveiling took place at a special ceremony, with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu leading the charge. This project reflects the vision of the President and his government, which assumed office in November of last year.
MACL’s multi-billion-dollar project is set to revolutionize Velana International Airport, targeting an impressive goal of catering to 25 million passengers annually, equivalent to 4,000 passengers per hour.
Upon project completion, Velana International Airport will transcend its role as a tourist gateway, evolving into a comprehensive facility for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul, meeting stringent EU aviation safety standards.
The domestic terminal will undergo a substantial expansion, boosting its current capacity from 300 to 2,000 passengers. The introduction of modern checking facilities and self-service kiosks will enhance the overall passenger experience.
MACL’s transformative vision includes the development of a separate terminal for jets, three additional water runways for air taxis, and a significant increase in parking capacity from 34 to 73. A dedicated terminal for low-cost carriers, equipped with four gates, will cater to 1,000 passengers per hour.
As part of this grand transformation, the neighboring Funadhoo will undergo development into an airport economic zone. This visionary project will feature transit hotels, shopping centers, convention centers, and entertainment complexes.
MACL’s recent enhancements to the airport, including upgraded runways, seaplane terminals, fire stations, cargo terminals, fuel farms, VIP, CIP, and passenger terminals, have set the stage for this transformative journey.
The runway is poised for full utilization upon the completion and operational launch of the new passenger terminal, expected to commence operations soon. This move is projected to double the current annual service from 3.5 million to seven million passengers per annum.
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.