Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced the finalization of bus routes essential for initiating seaplane services from Velana International Airport’s Terminal 1. MACL stated that preparations are currently underway to launch services at the new terminal’s seaplane counters. This involves determining the bus routes that operators will utilize to transport passengers checking in for seaplanes to the dedicated seaplane terminal.
Following the finalization of the bus routes, MACL also clarified that the South Parking Zone at Arrival Gate 4 of the new airport terminal will be exclusively designated for seaplane operators and for parking MACL staff buses. Consequently, MACL has advised all other parties to refrain from using this specific area. The company emphasized that it is strictly prohibited for other vehicles to enter, exit, or park in a manner that obstructs the vehicles already stationed within this zone. Furthermore, MACL urged all individuals to adhere to the instructions issued by airport estate security officers.
As preparations continue for the use of the airport’s seaplane counters, MACL conducted an orientation program last week to familiarize seaplane operators with the counter usage. MACL confirmed that operators from the national airline Maldivian and Flyme participated in this initiative. MACL indicated that the new terminal’s seaplane counters would soon become operational, although a precise date for the commencement of services was not provided.
The new terminal at Velana International Airport began operations on July 26th, and many airlines operating to the Maldives have since transitioned to this facility. This terminal is equipped with 24 dedicated check-in counters specifically designed to facilitate seaplane services. Given that the Maldives is home to the world’s largest seaplane operation, MACL expressed that the launch of these services from the new terminal will significantly enhance convenience for passengers utilizing this mode of transport.
