More than 14 flights scheduled to arrive at VIA on Sunday expected to be canceled
Escalating tensions in the Middle East have caused significant disruptions to air travel, leading to numerous flight cancellations at Velana International Airport and resulting in severe terminal congestion. In response to this situation, authorities are urging the formulation of long-term strategic plans to navigate such emergencies and safeguard the Maldives' economy and tourism industry.
A group of people seen waiting in the vicinity of Velana International Airport.
More than 14 flights scheduled to arrive at the Maldives' main gateway, Velana International Airport (VIA), are expected to be canceled on Sunday due to the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated significantly following retaliatory strikes by Iran in response to major attacks launched by Israel and the United States. This volatility has led to severe disruptions in regional aviation, resulting in the cancellation of several flights scheduled to travel from the Middle East to the Maldives.
Due to the ongoing conflict, numerous flights were cancelled on Saturday, leading to heavy congestion at the international terminal of Velana International Airport.
Aviators Maldives has reported that 12 flights scheduled to arrive in the Maldives on Sunday have been cancelled.
Furthermore, Inner Maldives CEO Mohamed Firaq stated on X that 14 flights scheduled to arrive at Velana International Airport (VIA) on Sunday are expected to be canceled. He noted that this situation highlights the critical nature of the current circumstances.
Highlighting that the country is heavily reliant on aviation and tourism, Firag stated that national development plans must be structured to overcome such emergencies. He further emphasized that these situations should not be viewed merely as temporary setbacks, but must be integrated into the nation's long-term strategic planning.
Firag stated that there is a pressing need for greater involvement from relevant government authorities, industry stakeholders, private companies, and the general public. He further emphasized that protecting the nation's economy and maintaining its credibility as a premier tourist destination can only be achieved through transparent policies, accountability, and collective action.
