A key milestone has been reached in enhancing aviation infrastructure in the Maldives with the early completion of Phase 1 of the Taxiway Charlie Rebuild Project at Velana International Airport (VIA). The redevelopment initiative, awarded to Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) in October 2024, aims to transform VIA’s former runway into a modern, efficient taxiway to accommodate growing air traffic and boost operational capacity at the country’s main international gateway.
BUCG, which has been an instrumental partner in several phases of the VIA expansion, commenced physical works on Taxiway Charlie on April 10, 2025. Demonstrating notable efficiency, the first phase was completed and officially handed over 84 days ahead of the original schedule, a testament to the company’s commitment and operational excellence. The handover ceremony, held at Hulhule’ Island Hotel, was attended by top officials from BUCG, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), and the Civil Aviation Authority.
MACL’s Deputy Managing Director, Mujthaba Jaleel, accepted the project completion certificate from BUCG’s Project Director, Kang Guang Bo. Speaking at the event, MACL Chairperson Aisha Nurain Janah emphasized the importance of this upgrade in streamlining airline operations, reducing turnaround times, and easing traffic congestion on the airfield. She expressed her appreciation for BUCG’s role as a reliable development partner, highlighting their consistency in delivering high-quality infrastructure ahead of time.
The redevelopment of Taxiway Charlie forms part of a broader four-phase initiative that aligns with MACL’s long-term vision to elevate the operational standards of VIA. The original 3,200-metre strip was developed in 1976 as VIA’s first runway. Over the years, it has undergone numerous enhancements, including an upgrade in 1981 to accommodate widebody aircraft and a full surface replacement in 2016 costing USD 15 million. The runway also sustained substantial damage during the 2004 tsunami, necessitating emergency repairs.
In October 2022, following the commissioning of the USD 150 million Code-F runway, operations were shifted from the old runway, which was subsequently designated for conversion into a taxiway. Once all phases of the Taxiway Charlie rebuild are completed, MACL anticipates a minimum reduction of 20 minutes in aircraft turnaround time, an improvement expected to greatly benefit airlines, reduce ground congestion, and enhance the overall passenger experience.
Although MACL has not publicly confirmed the current redevelopment project’s cost, industry reports estimate an investment of approximately USD 200 million. This strategic upgrade is set to significantly enhance the operational efficiency of VIA, a crucial aviation hub that connects the Maldives to key destinations around the world and serves as the main entry point for millions of tourists each year.
As the project progresses through its remaining phases, MACL continues to prioritize safety, efficiency, and capacity building to support the growing demands of global tourism and economic development. The early completion of Phase 1 not only reflects BUCG’s execution capabilities but also reaffirms MACL’s dedication to modernizing airport infrastructure in line with international standards.
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