Velana International Airport (VIA) is known as the busiest airport operated in the South Asia region. While the demand for the airport grows significantly daily, insufficient space is one main challenge faced by the airport. With the government of Maldives is continuously working to develop the main gateway of Maldives, VIA, the demand is increasing likewise.
The government of Maldives initiated one billion dollar mega project to solve the issue by expanding the airport. The expansion project of VIA includes the construction of a new runway, an international terminal, a new seaplane terminal, a fuel farm and a cargo complex. The development of a bigger apron is also in the pipeline to enable the easy parking of aircraft. It is noteworthy that no interruptions are experienced in the operation of the airport, regardless of the project conducted in the airport.
April has been a month with record increase in the operations of the airport. Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) revealed 29 private jets landed at VIA during the first day of the month, which is a notable increase compared to the same period of last year. MACL describes it as a growth of the tourism sector although April is not a peak month for tourism.