Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced the successful completion of a comprehensive training programme for Passenger Boarding Bridge (PBB) operators ahead of the 26 July opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA).
The specialised programme has trained 46 operational staff with the technical skills needed to operate the new PBB systems, which will be introduced for the first time in the Maldives as part of the new passenger terminal.
According to MACL, the training programme included both international and domestic components to ensure staff are fully aligned with global best practices. Fourteen employees underwent advanced training in Malaysia, while 32 completed simulator-based training locally.
“The programme focused on operational safety, technical proficiency, and passenger service excellence,” the company said in a statement. “All trained personnel have completed extensive simulator exercises to ensure familiarity with emergency protocols and safe operations.”
MACL said the introduction of PBBs marks a significant technological milestone for the nation’s aviation sector, providing passengers with direct, weather-protected access between aircraft and terminal gates—eliminating the need for ground transport and enhancing overall comfort.
As part of a long-term knowledge transfer strategy, MACL plans to use the Malaysia-trained team members as master trainers to support the continued development of PBB operations across the terminal.
“This investment in human capital underlines MACL’s commitment to establishing new benchmarks in passenger experience and operational excellence,” the company said.
The announcement comes as final preparations intensify for the opening of the new international terminal, which will coincide with the 60th anniversary of Maldivian independence. The US$450 million facility—backed by funding from the Saudi and Abu Dhabi development funds—is expected to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually and will fully replace the current terminal within three months.
In a related development, the Directorate of Aviation Security Administration (DASA) has confirmed that the new terminal meets all international aviation security standards. Chief Inspector Ahmed Nasheed, Head of DASA Aviation Security, said the facility’s security infrastructure, including its advanced baggage handling system, is in line with technologies used at leading global airports.
Meanwhile, resurfacing works on the airport’s main access road are under way and will continue nightly through 7 July. Lane closures are in effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., with Estate Security Service personnel on-site to manage traffic and ensure public safety.