The CEO and Managing Director of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, has credited President Dr Mohamed Muizzu as the key driving force behind the development of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA).

In a video message released on Wednesday providing the latest updates on the terminal, Shareef expressed his gratitude to President Dr Muizzu for his close involvement in the project, including ongoing monitoring and guidance. He noted that MACL is in the final stages of preparing for the terminal’s opening.

He assured that the terminal will be opened in line with the highest international standards and procedures. To ensure the terminal meets global benchmarks for safety and service, he added that MACL is working in consultation with Modalis, a globally renowned firm with expertise in supporting major airports worldwide.

Designed to accommodate 7.5 million passengers annually, the new terminal will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including airbridges, six self-check-in kiosks, an automated baggage handling system, and a visual docking guidance system.