President Dr Muizzu Officially Opens the New Cargo Terminal at Velana International Airport

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu officially opened the new cargo terminal at Velana International Airport in an evening ceremony attended by Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef along with senior government officials and foreign state representees. The new cargo terminal is a key component of the developmental project at Velana International. This project will significantly enhance the cargo handling capabilities in many folds.

After the official opening President Dr. Muizzu inspected the whole terminal which features many modern equipment along with cutting-edge facilities. The new cargo terminal is equipped with environmentally friendly vehicles. The new cargo terminal is poised to triple the cargo-handling capacity compared to the previous facility.

The new cargo terminal can handle three times more cargo than its predecessor, boosting the annual capacity from 50,000 tonnes to an impressive 120,000 tonnes.

A three-story office building with 55 office spaces has been constructed to accommodate airlines and cargo brokers, providing a conducive environment for efficient operations.

A dedicated cargo harbor has been established to facilitate the loading of cargo onto ships. Four cranes have been deployed to streamline the process, making sea transportation more accessible and efficient.

To further expedite and simplify cargo services, an online cargo agent portal has been launched. This portal enables cargo agents to access MACL's services online, enhancing convenience and efficiency.

The new terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including an increase in X-ray machines from five to nine. The electronic platforms have been expanded from two to seven, ensuring advanced and secure cargo handling operations.

Due to this expansion of the new facility human recourses will be increased by 141%. 

President Muizzu, in a recent announcement, outlined a development megaproject for Velana International Airport aimed at expanding its capacity to accommodate up to 25,000 tourists annually.