VIA begins accepting digital ID cards for domestic travel

Velana International Airport (VIA) has begun accepting digital identity cards from passengers checking in for domestic flights.

The operator of VIA, Maldives Airports Company Limited’s (MACL) Communications Manager Shamman Shakir told Sun said the move was initiated in response to a circular by the Directorate of Aviation Administration (DACA) which oversees the security and safety at airports.

DACA’s circular authorized the acceptance of a wider range of identification documents from passengers checking in for domestic flights.

Therewith, Shamman said unexpired digital identity cards alongside the following documents will be accepted at VIA’s domestic check-in counters.

•         Passport
•         National identity card/digital identity card
•         Works visa/digital work visa
•         Driver’s license/digital driver’s license
•         Airport security pass
•      Government-issued official document bearing picture and identity card number of the passenger 

These documents may be used to purchase airline tickets, check-in, and identification at security checkpoints.

MACL described the move as a step forward in efforts to digitalize services provided to the public.

The company also affirmed its commitment to enhancing passenger convenience and embracing digital transformation in its operations

National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT), which designed the digital identity card, has emphasized the importance of digitalization in this modern age.