Operator of Velana International Airport (VIA), Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has revealed that the expansion of the west apron will commence next month. With the increase in the number of aircraft and private jets parking in Maldivian airports over the years, MACL has aimed to develop and expand the apron area of VIA.
The existing apron covers an area of 50 thousand metres, while the expansion includes an area of 80,000 metres, according to MACL. When completed, the new apron will be able to accommodate twice the amount of aircraft, as it will provide a total area of 130,000 metres for parking space.
Managing Director of MACL Adil Moosa stated that the project for the expansion of the apron will begin soon as part of the USD1 billion mega project to develop VIA. Under the Maldivian Government's aim to develop VIA, a new passenger terminal, a new runway, a new cargo terminal and a new jet fuel storage facility will be established.
With the completion of the project, VIA will be able to cater 7 million passengers a year.