MACL signs agreements with three national agencies to strengthen airport crisis response

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed memoranda of understanding with three national agencies on Saturday to improve emergency preparedness and coordinated crisis response at Velana International Airport.

The company signed the agreements with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Maldives Meteorological Service (MMS), and the Maldives Red Crescent (MRC). MACL said the partnerships are aimed at strengthening how the country's main airport prepares for and manages emergencies and crisis situations.

The agreements were signed at a ceremony held at Hulhule Island Hotel under the theme "Airport Crisis Management." MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed attended, along with Minister of State for Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ibrahim Mimrah. MACL Deputy Managing Director Mujthaba Latheef, members of the company's Executive Committee, senior staff, and representatives of the partner agencies also took part.

Speaking at the ceremony, Shareef said the agreements mark an important step in strengthening the airport's readiness for emergencies. He said that as the main gateway of the Maldives, Velana International Airport requires strong coordination, clear communication, and shared preparedness among all relevant agencies, according to MACL.

The company said the agreements provide a formal framework for cooperation with the three agencies. This includes improved coordination during emergencies, clearer roles and responsibilities, stronger communication channels, and joint preparedness activities.

Under the agreements, MACL said it will work with NDMA, MMS, and MRC to conduct joint training, simulations, drills, and capacity-building programs. The company said these activities are intended to enhance readiness and response for airport-related emergencies.

MACL thanked the partner agencies for their cooperation. The company said it remains committed to keeping Velana International Airport a safe and well-prepared aviation gateway for the Maldives.