The Maldives has seen further growth in its sea-to-air cargo transshipment operations, with Velana International Airport announcing the latest milestone in its services. Yesterday, 12 Unit Load Devices (ULDs) of cargo originating from Bangladesh were successfully transshipped via Velana, connecting to flights EK657 and EK658, marking another successful shipment en route to Milan.
This expansion illustrates the Maldives’ ambition to position itself as a key hub in the Indian Ocean for the efficient movement of goods. Officially launched in March, MPL’s sea-to-air cargo transshipment services provide an efficient hybrid model, integrating the country’s maritime and aviation assets. Goods are brought into the Maldives via sea and then seamlessly transferred to air transport, expediting the movement of goods to their final destinations. This model offers particular benefits for neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which rely on these services to expedite exports to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
A key advantage of this hybrid system is its ability to increase connectivity through additional flights, enhancing commercial operations. The Maldives, due to its strategic location and infrastructure, can now serve as an important conduit for faster transshipment, reducing the time and costs associated with traditional sea freight.
MPL has strengthened its capacity by signing strategic agreements with MACL, MSS, and global airlines. These partnerships enable MPL to streamline cargo handling at Velana International Airport, allowing for quicker connections to key global markets. The service is also designed to support economic growth in the Maldives by providing a platform for increased trade.
With the Maldives continuing to make strides in sea-to-air cargo transshipment, it is well on its way to becoming a vital player in international logistics, ensuring faster and more efficient connections between sea routes and air corridors. The most recent development at Velana International Airport signals further growth in this sector, with transshipments now playing a significant role in boosting the nation’s export and logistics capacity.
