MACL CEO Highlights Strategic Priorities to Strengthen VIA’s Future Growth

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed has outlined the company’s strategic priorities aimed at strengthening Velana International Airport’s (VIA) position as the Maldives’ main international gateway and a key driver of economic growth.

Speaking at the Aviation Forum 2026 – Connecting Maldives held at Hotel Jen, Ibrahim Shareef joined a panel discussion themed “The New Journey in 3 Parts: Capacity, Revenue & Efficiency,” where he discussed MACL’s ongoing focus on airport expansion, revenue diversification, digital transformation and operational resilience.

During the session, the CEO stated that VIA’s development strategy is centred on preparing the airport to meet future demand while enhancing the overall passenger experience. He highlighted efforts currently underway to improve passenger services, strengthen cargo operations and advance major infrastructure projects that will support the continued growth of the Maldives’ aviation and tourism sectors.

He also detailed MACL’s digital transformation agenda, which includes the continued rollout of self-service check-in facilities, self-baggage drop systems, immigration e-gates, digital wayfinding, biometric facilitation, smart security screening and mobile boarding solutions. According to Ibrahim Shareef, these initiatives are intended to improve processing efficiency, streamline passenger movement and provide travellers with a more seamless airport experience.

As part of broader efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable airport business model, the CEO stressed the importance of expanding non-aeronautical revenue sources through lounges, retail services, food and beverage outlets, commercial partnerships and digital service platforms.

Addressing challenges facing the global aviation industry, Ibrahim Shareef underscored the importance of close coordination with airlines, tourism stakeholders and business partners to safeguard international connectivity and ensure VIA remains responsive to evolving market conditions.

In his remarks, the CEO reaffirmed MACL’s commitment to developing VIA into a future-ready airport supported by modern infrastructure, diversified revenue streams, robust operational systems and strong emergency preparedness.

He added that MACL’s strategic priorities remain focused on strengthening airport capacity, improving operational efficiency and ensuring VIA continues to support the sustainable development of the Maldives.