Maldives authorities have launched an emergency support operation at Velana International Airport (VIA) after escalating conflict in the Middle East led to widespread airspace closures and flight cancellations affecting thousands of travellers.
The initiative, coordinated by the Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL), aims to assist passengers stranded in the Maldives as regional carriers suspend services.
Airlines impacted by the disruptions include Emirates, flydubai, Gulf Air, Air Arabia, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways. On Saturday, nine flights were cancelled, affecting 1,716 passengers. By Sunday, cancellations had risen to 19 flights, disrupting the travel plans of 3,530 people.
Minister Thoriq Ibrahim visited the airport on Sunday to oversee arrangements for affected travellers. He warned that with much of Middle Eastern airspace closed, the Maldives could face a reduction of up to 35 percent in booked tourist arrivals if the situation persists, posing a significant challenge for the tourism-dependent economy.
Authorities say a round-the-clock support presence has been established at the airport. Information desks staffed by tourism officials are guiding passengers on alternative accommodation and onward travel options, while a disruption management centre set up by the airport operator is coordinating communication and assistance efforts. The government and tourism partners have secured temporary accommodation for more than 1,400 passengers at various tourist facilities. For those remaining at the airport, the former domestic terminal has been opened as a rest area. Airport officials said essential aid had been provided to at least 130 passengers by Sunday night.
Despite the regional turmoil, operations at Velana International Airport continue as normal, according to airport authorities, who say they are working to maintain services for all travellers.
Passengers travelling to or through the Middle East are being advised to check their flight status directly with airlines before heading to the airport, contact tour operators regarding rebookings, and monitor official flight information channels for updates.
Officials say coordination between tourism authorities, the airport operator and airlines is ongoing as they seek to minimise disruption and support affected visitors during the crisis.