President Mohamed Muizzu announced Thursday that the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) will be opened before October.
Delivering the presidential address at the opening of parliament, President Muizzu stated that the government is working to expand the Maldives’ air transport system to support tourism. He also confirmed that Hanimaadhoo International Airport and Addu Gan Airport will be completed and opened within this year.
The development of Hanimaadhoo and Addu airports is being carried out with the assistance of Exim Bank of India.
In addition to the three international airports, the president outlined efforts to develop domestic airports and improve air connectivity. He stated that M. Muli Airport is expected to open in April.
Work is underway on the construction of airports in:
- F. Nilandhoo
- Th. Guraidhoo
- Th. Vilufushi
- AA. Mathiveri
- GDh. Kaadedhdhoo
- GA. Villingili
- Sh. Milandhoo
- Sh. Komandoo
- Sh. Bileyfahi
- R. Fainu
- HA. Dhidhdhoo
- R. Alifushi
- B. Thulhaadhoo
- L. Kadhdhoo
The president also stated that efforts are being made to expand the services of HDh. Kulhudhuffushi and Sh. Funadhoo airports.
He noted that the new VIA terminal was initially planned to open in phases, starting with partial operations during last year’s tourism season. However, based on recommendations from the Airline Operators Committee (AOC), the full terminal will be completed and opened before October.
