Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) showcased the growing cargo capabilities of Velana International Airport (VIA) at the Air Cargo China 2026 exhibition in Shanghai, highlighting the airport's expanding role as a regional air cargo transshipment hub.
During the event, MACL held discussions with airlines, cargo carriers and logistics firms to strengthen partnerships with Asian markets, encourage additional freighter services and expand cargo connectivity between the Maldives and key destinations in Europe, North America and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
The company noted that VIA has continued to strengthen its position as a dependable regional and international cargo hub, supported by its strategic geographic location, a growing airline network and integrated multimodal cargo services.
Cargo operations at VIA recorded steady growth during the first half of the year. The airport handled 36,367 tonnes of cargo between January and June, representing a five percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Transshipment cargo also grew significantly, rising by 15 percent to reach 7,982 tonnes.
Freighter activity expanded even more rapidly. A total of 358 dedicated cargo flights operated during the six-month period, transporting 2,925 tonnes of freight—an increase of 174 percent compared to last year. The airport also achieved a new milestone on 12 July by handling a record 140 tonnes of transshipment cargo in a single day.
Among transshipment markets, China ranked as the second-largest source of cargo moving through the Maldives during the first half of the year, while Sri Lanka remained the largest contributor. The United States was the leading destination for outbound cargo, receiving approximately 1,618 tonnes transported via the Maldives.
MACL also highlighted the success of its Sea-to-Air cargo service, introduced in 2024. The service has facilitated the movement of more than 5,000 tonnes of cargo through 17 airlines, linking regional ports including Colombo, Mumbai, Dhaka and Tuticorin with destinations across Europe and North America.
Looking ahead, MACL expects airlines to boost cargo capacity and launch additional routes, including services to the United Kingdom, during the 2026/2027 winter schedule. Through these efforts, the company aims to further establish Velana International Airport as a recognised regional hub for cargo transshipment.
