MACL requests police probe into drone crash at VIA inaugural show

From the drone show held to inaugurate the opening of the VIA terminal on July 26, 2025. (Photo/MACL)

The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has formally requested a police investigation into the crash of several drones from the inaugural show for the new international terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA).

The case was officially filed by MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef, as confirmed to Sun by a police spokesperson. No further details were provided.

A reliable source informed Sun that the police were asked to investigate the crash to ascertain if any external parties were involved.

MACL and the drone show operator incurred significant losses. A number of drone crashes prevented the runway from opening and led to delays for several flights.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, first lady and dignitaries watch the fireworks display at the ceremony held to inaugurate the new international terminal at VIA on July 26, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)

The opening ceremony of the new terminal featured a drone show and a six-minute simultaneous fireworks display from 19 locations around the city. These locations included 16 sea areas surrounding the city and three within the airport.

The historic fireworks display was also recognized by Guinness World Records.

By Azhaar Abdul Azeez

Writer