MACL Advances Airport Upgrade with Phase 3 of Taxiway Charlie Redevelopment

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has commenced Phase 3 of the Taxiway Charlie redevelopment project at Velana International Airport, marking continued progress in upgrading critical airside infrastructure to support operational efficiency and long term capacity.

The redevelopment forms part of a four phase project awarded to Beijing Urban Construction Group on 16 October 2024, with physical works having begun on 10 April 2025. Phase 3 will cover the redevelopment of 1,100 metres of Taxiway Charlie and is scheduled for completion by 31 October 2026.

MACL stated that the project is a key component of its broader infrastructure development programme aimed at enhancing safety standards, improving aircraft movement efficiency, and strengthening the airport’s ability to accommodate growing traffic volumes.

Taxiway Charlie carries historical significance within Velana International Airport’s development. Originally constructed in 1976 as the airport’s first runway, the 3,200 metre strip was upgraded in 1981 to accommodate wide body aircraft and subsequently extended over the years in line with increasing aviation demand.

The infrastructure sustained significant damage following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, requiring ongoing repairs to maintain operations. With the commissioning of the new Code F runway in October 2022, the original runway was formally repurposed into Taxiway Charlie, allowing it to continue serving a central role in aircraft ground operations.

The phased redevelopment reflects MACL’s ongoing focus on modernising legacy infrastructure while aligning with the operational demands of a growing aviation sector, as Velana International Airport continues to function as the Maldives’ primary international gateway.