The new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) is expected to significantly ease congestion during peak hours, according to the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Managing Director, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed.

Speaking to State media, Shareef said the busiest period at VIA is between 6:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when the majority of international flights arrive in the Maldives. He added that the upgraded terminal is designed to ease congestion during these peak hours by streamlining passenger movement and enabling more flight slots to accommodate rising demand.

With approximately 90 per cent of VIA’s passengers being international tourists, Shareef said the current terminal does not meet the service standards expected by the tourism industry. He noted that space constraints have limited the number of airlines able to operate during the most sought-after times, making expansion essential to support further growth.

To address these limitations, Shareef stated that the new terminal has been designed to meet international benchmarks set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It will also include a range of modern infrastructure such as airbridges, self-check-in kiosks, an automated baggage handling system, and a visual docking guidance system – all aimed at improving safety, reducing waiting times, and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

The existing terminal, built in 1978, continues to face capacity challenges. In contrast, the new terminal will have the capability to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually. MACL has stated that the new infrastructure will better serve the tourism industry and expand opportunities for airlines operating in the Maldives.