Due to a rise in concerns about congestion at Velana International Airport (VIA), Tourism Minister Dr Abdulla Mausoom has stated that discussions are ongoing to reroute some flights to Gan International Airport in Addu City.
Since the Maldives lifted COVID-19 travel restrictions in July, the country’s major international airport has seen sporadic congestion with the rise in tourist arrivals.
The airport’s operator, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), has experienced public criticism as a result of the congestion situation at VIA.
Minister Mausoom informed a local news outlet that the airport is currently operating at maximum physical capacity as a result of the delays in commencing construction on the new terminal and the closure of several airport facilities owing to the upgrading projects.
He added that talks are being held with airlines to reroute certain flights to Gan International Airport. While noting that it is a difficult challenge for airlines, Mausoom stated that they have not yet agreed to reroute flights to Addu.
Several airlines, including Sri Lankan Airlines and IndiGo, as well as chartered planes, have recently commenced service to Addu City airport.
