Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has stated it will operate the newly built seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) even if space is leased from the premises for seaplane operators.
The remarks by MACL came while rumours are floating in the social media saying the company plans to lease the whole terminal to another party.
MACL said negotiations are placed on hold with other companies to rent space within the terminal. The company stated that so far there has not been any agreement with another party operating seaplanes to lease space in the terminal. They said talks with seaplane operators are on hold upon advice relevant authorities.
MACL will oversee the new seaplane terminal and the VIP Building but seaplane operators will conduct operations when space is leased from the premises. The company stated the newly built runway at VIA could be made operational only after Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) relocated its facilities and property along with other buildings in the area.
The newly built seaplane terminal cost USD 26 million and includes a VIP lounge, baggage handling facilities, retail shops and food and beverage services.