Velana International Airport at 59: A Nation’s Gateway, A Symbol of Progress

Today marks the 59th anniversary of Velana International Airport (VIA) — a national icon that has grown from a narrow steel runway on a once-inhabited island into one of the most significant aviation hubs in the Indian Ocean region. More than just an airport, VIA is a pillar of the Maldivian economy, a gateway to the world, and a lasting symbol of independence and ambition.

Humble Beginnings on Hulhulé

The story of Velana International Airport begins in the heart of the 20th century on Hulhulé Island, which was inhabited at the time. On October 19, 1960, the island witnessed a historic moment when a Royal New Zealand Air Force Bristol Freighter became the first aircraft to land in the airport. It touched down on a slotted steel sheet runway measuring just 75 feet by 3,000 feet.

Two years later, on April 10, 1962, the Maldives took its first step into global connectivity when an Air Ceylon Avro 748 landed — the airport’s first commercial flight. Another proud milestone came on October 9, 1974, when the first Maldivian-owned aircraft landed on Hulhulé, signifying national progress in aviation.

In May 1964, the island nation witnessed a remarkable act of unity. The government rallied the people of Malé to construct a new asphalt runway, organizing a community effort where the city’s four districts competed for prize money. On the very first day, 108 volunteers joined the effort. This new runway was inaugurated by President Ibrahim Nasir on April 12, 1966 — the very date we commemorate today.

From National Project to International Gateway

As tourism began to take root in 1972, Hulhulé Airport — then operating under modest infrastructure — became central to the Maldives’ transformation into a global travel destination. Recognizing the growing demands of aviation, the government established the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) in 1994 to manage operations under full state ownership.

The airport was later renamed Ibrahim Nasir International Airport in 2011 in honor of the former president. In 2017, it took on its current name — Velana International Airport — in recognition of President Nasir’s family name, “Velana.”

Economic Backbone of a Nation

Tourism is the lifeblood of the Maldivian economy — and VIA is the artery through which that lifeblood flows. Serving millions of passengers annually, the airport is the main port of entry for tourists, expatriate workers, and business travelers. Beyond tourism, VIA supports trade, sea-air cargo logistics, and local employment, directly and indirectly sustaining thousands of livelihoods.

Modernization and Milestones

In recent years, Velana International Airport has undergone the most ambitious infrastructure upgrade in its history — a series of high-impact projects designed to transform it into a future-ready aviation hub:

Fire Station – 2024

• ICAO Category 9-compliant emergency response facilities
• Equipped for rapid land and marine emergencies

Cargo Terminal Complex – 2024

• Tripled capacity from 50,000 to 120,000 tonnes per year
• Dedicated cargo harbor, four cranes, and RA3 certification for international air cargo standards

Fuel Farm & Hydrant System – 2024

• Capacity for 45 million liters of Jet A1 fuel
• 8.4 km hydrant pipeline to reduce refueling times and improve safety

Seaplane Terminal – 2022

• The largest in the world with 42 docks and 28,000 square meters of space
• Anchors the Maldives’ status as the global capital of seaplane tourism

New Runway – 2022

• Code F runway (3,400 meters), long enough to accommodate the Airbus A380

Sea-to-Air Cargo Integration – 2024

• Launched on May 8, 2024

Over 900 tonnes of cargo moved via 11 airlines and 209 containers

Projects in Progress

New International Passenger Terminal – Opening in 2025

• Will cover 78,000 square meters and accommodate up to 7.5 million passengers annually
• Includes aero-bridges, automated baggage systems, and expanded retail and hospitality services

Taxiway Charlie Reconstruction

• A 3,200-meter taxiway designed to streamline aircraft movement, reduce congestion, and cut turnaround times

Celebrating 59 Years of National Pride

To honor this milestone, a week of celebrations is being held by MACL — including cultural performances, a friendship march, sporting events, and a gala recognizing employees who have been instrumental in the airport’s evolution.

Velana International Airport is more than a piece of infrastructure — it is a reflection of the Maldivian spirit, shaped by perseverance, innovation, and unity. From its humble beginnings on a strip of steel sheets to becoming a sophisticated aviation gateway serving millions, VIA is a source of national pride and a beacon of how far the Maldives has come.

As it enters its 60th year, the airport stands ready to meet the future — not just as a transport hub, but as a lifeline, an icon, and a catalyst for the Maldives’ continued rise on the world stage.