VIA passengers urged to check flight status amid Gulf cancellations

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), which operates Velana International Airport (VIA), on Saturday evening issued a travel advisory following temporary airspace closures in several Gulf countries and the suspension of airline operations due to developments in the Middle East.

The advisory follows military action involving the United States and Israel against Iran earlier on Saturday, and subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran on United States bases in the region. As a result, airspace in parts of the Middle East has been closed and multiple flights have been cancelled.

MACL advised passengers travelling to Middle Eastern destinations to monitor updates from airlines and tour operators before arriving at VIA.

In the advisory, MACL urged passengers to check flight status through official airline websites or mobile applications prior to travel, contact tour operators for guidance on rebooking or schedule changes, and allow additional time to make travel arrangements. Real-time flight information is available at fis.com.mv, the company said.

MACL also said it will continue to provide services to passengers and thanked travellers for their cooperation.

Airport sources said around 10 flights to Middle Eastern destinations were cancelled on Saturday afternoon. Several flights scheduled between noon and sunset were cancelled after passengers had arrived at the airport, leading to a large number of travellers remaining at VIA by sunset.