In a celebration of resilience and progress, Velana International Airport commemorates its 58th anniversary as the steadfast pillar of connectivity for the Maldives. Since its inception in the early 1970s, this vital aviation hub has played a pivotal role in catapulting the nation onto the global tourism stage. Serving as the primary gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives, Velana International Airport has not only facilitated the influx of travelers but has also served as a catalyst for economic growth and development.
The First Contact
Airport development work was ongoing in the 1960s.
On October 19, 1960, VIA witnessed its auspicious beginning with the landing of the first-ever aircraft on its slotted steel runway. Developed on Hulhule’ Island under the vision of the then-Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir, VIA welcomed its first commercial flight, operated by Air Ceylon, on April 10, 1962. Two years later, in 1964, the Maldivian government decided to replace the airport’s slotted steel runway with an improved asphalt runway, measuring 45 x 2,840 meters. This upgrade marked the start of VIA’s ‘Golden Age’ of development. The airport officially opened as “Hulhule’ Airport” on April 12, 1966, a significant milestone achieved even before the country gained independence in 1965. The relentless commitment of the Maldivian people to realizing their dream of a thriving airport was evident. In the subsequent years, VIA experienced a steady increase in air traffic, which played a crucial role in laying the foundation for the country’s booming tourism industry, starting in the 1970s. By the late 1970s, the airport urgently needed expansion to accommodate the growing number of passengers, leading to significant infrastructure improvements in 1981 when it was reintroduced as Male’ International Airport.
Today
In 2023, Velana International Airport (VIA) recorded a total of 62,866 air traffic movements annually. During the same period, the airport registered 2,865,547 arrivals and 2,864,799 departures, with over 1.8 million being tourists. Welcoming and departing over 2.8 million passengers annually is no small feat for the Maldives, showcasing the island nation’s openness and connectivity with the world. This achievement underscores the significant role played by Velana International Airport as the country’s primary air gateway.
Enter, the Operator
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the operator of VIA, has an equally fascinating history intertwined with the airport’s development. Established as a government-owned limited liability company, MACL has been instrumental in steering VIA toward its current success. The journey began in 1966 with the operation of “Hulhule’ Airport,” followed by various development phases that eventually led to the transformation of Hulhule’ Airport into Male’ International Airport in 1981. The creation of MACL in 2000 marked a pivotal moment as it took over the management of the airport, paving the way for VIA’s gradual expansion and growth.
The Initiatives for Improvement
New International Passenger Terminal Building
Currently under development, the new international passenger terminal building will have an increased built-up area of more than 78,000 square meters, capable of accommodating up to 7.5 million passengers annually. This development includes state-of-the-art baggage handling systems and aero building bridges, addressing space constraints and offering enhanced amenities for passengers. The terminal is expected to be operational by the end of 2024.
CEO and Managing Director of MACL Ibrahim Shareef said that the new terminal will have a world class baggage handling system in place. As a result, the baggage will be automatically tagged, sorted.
“What will happen at the new terminal is that all these front baggage check in will be removed. New system will be easy to follow, modern and mostly automatic,” he said.
New Runway
New Code-F runway.
The newly operational Code-F runway, with dimensions of 3,400 meters in length and 60 meters in width, has increased VIA’s capacity to accommodate larger commercial carriers, including the A380 aircraft.
New Fuel Farm and New Fuel Hydrant System
The new fuel storage facility at VIA will cover approximately 37,000 square meters, three times the size of the current fuel farm. With increased capacity and improved infrastructure, VIA aims to enhance safety and reduce service time for aircraft fueling operations.
“One of the most important things you need to do to enhance the passenger experience is to fly the planes to the connecting destination without delay. Normally fuel loading is taking a lot of time here. Now, a fuel hydrant system has been developed to refuel near the boat. This will ease airlines and it will attract more airlines,” Shareef said.
The New CIP/VIP Building
The Phase 01 VIP/CIP terminal, operational since January 07, 2022, offers various amenities including catering services, prayer facilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and private lounges. With its completion, the terminal will provide enhanced services for passengers, contributing to VIA’s reputation as a world-class airport.
Government’s Vision for VIA
CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef speaking with a staff member.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu unveiled an ambitious vision for VIA’s future, aiming to accommodate 25 million passengers over the next two decades. The government’s sanctioned envisioned project includes the development of a new domestic terminal, with a dedicated terminal for low-cost carriers, and a seaplane terminal on Furaanafushi Island, a separate island connected by a bridge and dedicated transport network. Additionally, plans are underway to expand fuel storage capacity, cargo handling capacity, and introduce a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility adhering to EASA standards. These initiatives will position VIA as a leading aviation hub in the region, catering to diverse passenger needs and driving economic growth.
The 20-Year VIA Master Plan
The comprehensive master plan outlines VIA’s development trajectory, including the expansion of passenger terminals, cargo facilities, fuel storage capacity, and apron stands. By 2050, VIA aims to accommodate 25 million passengers annually, with enhanced infrastructure and services to support its growth as a world-class airport. The Airport Economic Zone at Funadhoo promises a dynamic mix of commerce, leisure, and hospitality, catering to both travelers and locals alike. Anchored by world-class amenities, the zone will boast an array of shopping centers, transforming it into a retail paradise for visitors. Furthermore, it will serve as a bustling transportation hub, facilitating seamless connectivity to and from VIA. Through strategic planning and continuous investment in infrastructure, VIA is poised to fulfill its role as a vital gateway for the Maldives, facilitating tourism, trade, and economic development for years to come. The President’s vision for a vibrant and sustainable future for the Maldives takes a significant step forward. As the nation embraces this exciting new chapter, anticipation builds for the transformative impact it will have on tourism, commerce, and prosperity for years to come.
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