Velana International Airport (VIA) has recorded a robust 10 percent increase in cargo handled during 2025 compared to the previous year, underscoring the steady expansion of trade flows and the rising importance of the Maldives as a logistics and transshipment gateway in the Indian Ocean region. The growth reflects heightened demand for efficient air cargo services, supported by improved infrastructure, expanding airline networks, and the country’s strategic location along key international trade routes.
Statistics released by the airport indicate that a total of 89,163 tonnes of cargo was processed through VIA in 2025. Imports accounted for 66,840 tonnes, while exports reached 23,323 tonnes, highlighting the airport’s central role in facilitating the movement of essential goods, commercial products, and export consignments. A significant contributor to overall growth was the strong performance of transshipment operations, with 16,372 tonnes of cargo handled as goods passing through the Maldives en route to other international destinations. This represented a 22 percent increase compared to 2024, reflecting growing confidence among global logistics providers in using VIA as a reliable transit hub.
Most transshipment cargo continued to be transported by air, with 13,180 tonnes moved via aircraft, while a further 3,192 tonnes were handled through combined sea-to-air services. This multimodal capability enhances operational flexibility and provides shippers with a wider range of routing options, reinforcing VIA’s competitiveness within the regional cargo network.
The increase in cargo volumes has been supported by a rising number of cargo ship operations at the airport. Major cargo operators serving VIA include Afcom, Fly Vaayu, Mjets, Qatar Cargo, National Airlines, AirMaster, and MNG Airlines. Collectively, these operators conducted 524 trips during the year, transporting a combined total of 4,300 tonnes of cargo. The expanding presence of international and regional cargo carriers reflects sustained demand and the airport’s growing reputation as a dependable logistics platform.
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the operator of VIA, has outlined further measures to strengthen cargo handling capacity and efficiency. Planned initiatives include the expansion of cargo storage areas on the apron to facilitate smoother loading and unloading operations, the installation of additional X-ray machines to enhance screening capacity, and the automation of selected procedures to accelerate cargo clearance processes. These developments are expected to improve turnaround times, reduce congestion, and support continued growth in cargo volumes.
The sustained increase in cargo throughput highlights the Maldives’ evolving role beyond tourism, positioning the country as an emerging hub for regional trade and transshipment. With ongoing investments in infrastructure, technology, and operational efficiency, Velana International Airport is well placed to support expanding commercial activity and to serve as a vital link connecting the Maldives with global supply chains.
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