Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced that discussions are under way to transfer the operations of seven additional airlines to the new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA).

The new terminal, which currently handles only the national carrier’s international flights, is part of the Government’s major expansion efforts to improve passenger handling capacity and service quality.

MACL stated that consultations have been held with stakeholders and airline partners to finalise the move. The airlines scheduled for relocation this month include Chongqing Airlines, Beond, Xiamen Air, Oman Air, Fits Aviation, US-Bangla Airlines, Air Arabia, Bangkok Airways and Batik Air.

Once implemented, the relocation is expected to ease congestion in the existing terminal and enhance operational efficiency for both passengers and airlines.