Velana International Airport (VIA) has taken a significant step forward in preparations for the opening of its new international terminal, with the completion of its water supply connection. The milestone comes ahead of the terminal’s scheduled inauguration on 26 July, coinciding with Maldives’ Independence Day.
The achievement was marked with a ceremony held by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the state-owned operator of the airport. The water connection was officially commissioned by MACL’s Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, joined by senior executives and staff.
To service the terminal, MACL installed a dedicated 1,800-metre pipeline, including a 635-metre segment constructed beneath the Hulhulé lagoon. The system is expected to ensure a continuous supply of potable water to the expansive new facility.
With the countdown to opening well under way, operational readiness efforts have gathered pace across key areas. Once open, the terminal will significantly expand the airport’s handling capacity, positioning it to meet the government’s tourism target of 2.3 million arrivals in 2025.
Authorities expect the terminal to play a central role in strengthening the country’s economic recovery and future growth, serving as a vital infrastructure upgrade to support the Maldives’ dominant tourism sector.
