Private jets fill Maldives airports, sees 8 percent increase

The arrival of private jets to the Maldives has shown an uptick in numbers as the island nation is currently observing its peak tourism season.

Tourist arrivals increase to the tropical destination as many of these travelers are escaping the winter season in their home countries but are still looking to celebrate the festivities that are entailed to the season.

With the increment in tourist arrivals this peak season, the number of private jets parked at the Velana International Airport’s (VIA) apron has increased as well.

A senior official of the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), speaking with ‘Sun’ Online said, that a total of 30 private jets are currently parked at VIA. The official further confirms an increase in jet movements, with total movements as of Saturday recorded at 148.

As of December 28, 2023, the total number of jet movements recorded stood at 137, indicating an increase of 11 movements this year in the same period; which also translates to an 8 percent increase.

Total flight movements as of December 28 last year were recorded at 2,107 whereas in the same period this year, total flight movements had reached 2,326; indicating a 10 percent increase.

The official further said that MACL has facilitating parking of private jets in three locations of VIA since jet arrivals increase around this period every year. The official confirmed a total of 68 parking spots for jets are designated on the north, east, and south sides of the airport.

While jet and flight arrivals have seen increase as the year is winding up, the main airport’s operations have grown busier as well.