A digital design of VIA’s new VIP complex. PHOTO/MACL
Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL) has awarded the project to develop Velana International Airport (VIA)’s new VIP complex to Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) of China.
BUCG is also the contractor tasked with developing VIA’s new runway and seaplane terminal, which are key components of the main airport’s ongoing expansion project.
An official of MACL declared Tuesday that development of the VIP complex, which is to be carried out in two phases, will commence next month. He revealed that it will be constructed in the empty land plot adjacent to the current VIP complex.
“During the second phase, the current lounge will be demolished and both [complexes] will be merged together.”
MACL had earlier stated that the new VIP complex will be a four-storey structure constructed on the waterfront area which previously housed the restaurant Aqua. The state-of-the-art complex will feature a range of facilities including check-in counters, food and beverage outlets, restrooms and prayer rooms, as well as separate VIP and CIP lounges with private parlours available on demand.
The mega project to expand VIA, which includes development of a new runway, cargo complex and fuel farm, was awarded to BUCG for USD 373 million (MVR 5.7 billion). The foundation laying ceremony of the cargo complex is scheduled to be held this Wednesday evening.