The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced the establishment of two additional checkpoints at Velana International Airport (VIA). The checkpoints, located on the west and east sides of the airport, aim to enhance the safety and security of the facility.
Inaugurating the new checkpoints, Managing Director of MACL Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed emphasised that aviation security will closely monitor these points. He also highlighted that the checkpoints would assist the Customs in preventing the smuggling of illegal drugs, significantly boosting the airport's overall safety and security.
Additionally, Shareef noted that increasing the number of airside checkpoints is not ideal as it can hinder operations. He, however, said that strategically positioning the two new checkpoints to inspect vehicles and individuals will mitigate existing challenges. He also said that the checkpoints are equipped with advanced technology, including dual machines capable of detecting irregular imports.
Furthermore, Shareef said that new scanning systems have been installed to further strengthen internal security. He also announced that a luggage handling machine will soon be implemented on the airside, improving the efficiency of luggage inspections.