The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced the initiation of the aerobridge installation at the new terminal in Velana International Airport (VIA). It marks a significant milestone as it is the first aerobridge installation in the Maldives.
MACL has confirmed that the aerobridge installation has commenced at all six contact gates of the airport. The aerobridge will enable passengers to board aircraft directly from the terminal, providing a convenient and efficient boarding process. While MACL has not specified the completion date, it has emphasised the rapid progress of the work.
The development project for the new VIA passenger terminal was awarded to the Bin Laden Group of Saudi Arabia in 2016. The terminal is designed to accommodate seven million passengers annually, spanning an expansive 78,000sqm. The new terminal will be equipped with modern amenities, including Aero boarding bridges and state-of-the-art baggage handling systems. The new terminal will also feature retail spaces, lounges, and various services.
The VIA development project aligns with the vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, making the project a top priority for the government. The goal is to complete the new terminal by the end of the year, further bolstering the country's aviation infrastructure.