Middle Eastern flight operations to Maldives face major disruptions and cancellations; VIA says it is currently assessing number of stranded tourists

Operations at Velana International Airport (VIA) have been disrupted following the cancellation of several major international flights to the Maldives, as Middle Eastern airspace becomes increasingly hazardous due to joint military strikes by Israel and the United States against Iran.

A reliable source informed RaajjeMV that operations at Velana International Airport (VIA) have been disrupted since Saturday afternoon, following the cancellation of scheduled flights from the Middle East. The disruptions were caused by the closure of airspace in the region, following Iranian strikes targeting U.S. military bases in the Middle East.

As a result of these developments, Velana International Airport (VIA) has been unable to maintain its operational schedule, leaving numerous tourists stranded at the airport. A media official from VIA informed RaajjeMV that several flights from the Middle East are being canceled. The official further stated that they are currently assessing the details of the canceled flights and the number of affected passengers, and will release further information as soon as it becomes available.

Among the canceled flights are Qatar Airways and Emirates, two of the primary carriers bringing tourists to the Maldives. These airlines announced that the suspension of operations was due to safety and security concerns. Furthermore, a flight that departed from Male' to Dubai on Saturday was forced to return to the Maldives after being unable to land in Dubai.

According to unofficial sources, hundreds of tourists have been stranded at the airport, unable to depart. Travel agencies and resorts are currently providing the necessary assistance to those affected.