Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has intensified operational coordination and passenger assistance at Velana International Airport (VIA) following regional airspace restrictions affecting parts of the Middle East, which have resulted in multiple flight cancellations over the past two days.

On 28 February 2026, nine flight movements were cancelled, affecting approximately 1,716 passengers. A further 19 flight movements were cancelled on 1 March 2026, impacting around 3,530 passengers. The disruptions are attributed to external airspace limitations beyond the Maldives.

In response, MACL activated a Disruption Management Centre at VIA on 28 February, with coordinated service operations now fully underway. The airport’s domestic terminal is being utilised to facilitate passenger management and ease congestion.

As of last evening, essential assistance had been provided to 130 passengers with the support of relevant stakeholders. Dedicated service counters have been established for the affected airlines, with representatives stationed on-site to assist travellers. Additional MACL personnel have been deployed across the airport to enhance real-time coordination and provide guidance to passengers.

MACL said it is working closely with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, Visit Maldives Corporation, airline partners and tour operators to address the challenges faced by affected passengers and to ensure coordinated and timely solutions.

General airport operations continue as scheduled for routes not impacted by the airspace restrictions.