Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has revealed only two international flights currently land at Velana International Airport (VIA) on a daily basis.
Speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony held to mark the 54th anniversary of MACL, acting Managing Director Moosa Solih said the COVID-19 pandemic has brought a halt to most of the international flight operations. He noted an average of 40 international flights used to land at VIA on a daily basis before the pandemic, while the average has now dropped to 2. He added the number of daily domestic flights at VIA has also dropped from 50 to 5.
In his speech, the managing director said last year was a successful year for MACL, with flight operations increasing by 16% and passengers increasing by 13%. He also highlighted the commitment of MACL staff who are attending work at these difficult times, noting they are providing a national service.
VIA was inaugurated on April 12, 1966.