In anticipation of the opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) on July 26, staff members have undergone training to operate passenger boarding bridges—marking a first for the Maldives.

According to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), this training is a critical part of preparations for the terminal, which will replace the current need for buses to transport passengers between aircraft and terminal gates. The boarding bridges will allow for safer and more efficient boarding and disembarkation.

A total of 46 staff have completed the training so far, with 14 of them receiving instruction in Malaysia. MACL stated that these sessions included simulator-based training followed by hands-on experience with the actual boarding bridges.

The training was aimed at equipping staff with the skills and knowledge aligned with international standards and safety protocols. MACL also plans to extend the training to more staff locally, utilizing the expertise of those trained abroad.

The new international terminal spans 78,000 square metres and is designed to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually.