The expansion project of Velana International Airport (VIA) is one of the mega projects conducted by the government of Maldives. With the number of tourist arrivals increasing annually and surpassing 1 million, the government initiated a mega project to expand the main international airport of Maldives.
In this regard, VIA is expanding its capacity to meet the expected increase in passenger traffic over the coming years. The USD one billion mega project is initiated to increase the current 4.5 million passenger capacity airport to cater to 7.5 million passengers per year.
The new passenger terminal is developed by Saudi Binladin Group at a cost of USD 300 million. New developments underway include a new passenger terminal with a built-up area of 90,000 square metres which can accommodate 7.5 million passengers, 9 new passenger boarding bridges, state-of-the-art baggage handling systems, new Code-F runway measuring 3,400 metres by 60 metres and a new fuel storage which can hold 3 times the current capacity.
The project was initiated by the government to offer a smooth transfer experience for travellers, according to MACL.
Speaking to PSM News regarding the progress of the project, Managing Director of MACL Adil Moosa assured the new runway developed at Velana International Airport will be completed by August, adding test flights on the runway will begin in September. While the company guaranteed the runway will be completed by August, MACL also aims to complete the new taxiway in August as well.
The USD one billion mega expansion plan for Velana International Airport was launched in December 2016.