Seaplane terminal to be relocated, linked to airport via monorail system

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to relocate the seaplane terminal at the Velana International Airport (VIA) to an island neighboring Hulhumale’, and to connect the airport with the seaplane terminal via a monorail system.

He made the announcement during the launch of a multimillion-dollar project to develop the VIA on Thursday night.

President Muizzu said the seaplane terminal, Funadhoo, Male’ City and Hulhule’ will be linked via a bridge, and that a public transport system – including a monorail system – will be established.

“And, a bridge will be built linking Funadhoo and Male’, and Funadhoo and Hulhule’, and a bridge will link Hulhule’, Hulhumale’ and the seaplane terminal, and a public transport system – especially a rail system – will be established, allowing ease in transport for passengers, customers and staff,” he said.

He said that the VIA development project will speed up once the seaplane terminal is relocated. The area where the seaplane terminal is currently located is set to be reclaimed to build aprons.

President Muizzu said that the relocation of the seaplane is also linked to plans to move the State Trading Organization (STO)’s fuel storage tanks in Funadhoo to a different location. He said that he expects to begin the project this year, and complete it within 18-24 months.

President Muizzu said he plans on developing a modern financial center, conventions centers and hotels in Funadhoo.

The new seaplane terminal at VIA - which is set to be relocated - had opened in 2022. It was built at the cost of USD 55 million.

The project to develop the VIA is set to be conducted over the course of 20 years.