MACL Establishes Special Counters at VIA Amid Flight Cancellations

Maldives Airports Company Limited has established special service counters for airlines with cancelled international flights at the domestic terminal of Velana International Airport.

The measures have been introduced as part of efforts to address difficulties faced by passengers due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. A significant number of flights transiting through the region have been cancelled following airspace closures, resulting in tourists being stranded in the Maldives and disruptions for those travelling to the country.

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MACL stated that a Disruption Management Centre was set up on 28 February at the domestic terminal to provide additional services and facilitate passenger assistance. As of Saturday night, 130 passengers had received essential support with the assistance of relevant authorities.

According to the company, nine flights were cancelled on 28 February, affecting 1,716 passengers. On 1 March 2026, a further 19 flights were cancelled, impacting approximately 3,530 passengers.

MACL is coordinating with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, Visit Maldives Corporation, airlines and tour operators to manage the situation and support affected travellers. Despite the cancellations, the company stated that overall operations at Velana International Airport continue to function normally.