The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) convened a crucial session of its Land Runway Safety Team (LRST) at Velana International Airport yesterday, signaling a firm commitment to uphold aviation safety as the new passenger terminal nears completion.
We hosted the Local Runway Safety Team (LRST) meeting, chaired by our CEO & MD, Mr. Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed.
The LRST is a committee established at Velana International Airport in accordance with regulations set by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Today’s meeting was… pic.twitter.com/CEB9PdoAho— Maldives Airports Company Ltd (@MACLmedia) June 17, 2025
Leadership at the Forefront
Chaired by MACL Managing Director & CEO Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, the meeting brought together a wide array of aviation stakeholders. Among them were representatives from local airlines, Maldives National Air Traffic Services (MNATS), the Airline Association, and the Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers Association. The gathering follows stringent regulatory frameworks set by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority .
A Unified Focus on Runway Safety
Designed as a mandatory oversight committee, the LRST’s purpose is twofold: to monitor and audit runway safety protocols, and to ensure comprehensive coordination between the airport operator, regulators, and airlines. Yesterday’s meeting highlighted topics ranging from runway integrity to emergency response strategies, emphasizing preemptive measures as the new terminal prepares for operations.
Proactive Coordination Ahead of Terminal Launch
With the terminal’s grand opening slated for July 26, the session served as a vital rehearsal for inter-agency collaboration. Attendees reviewed operational checklists, shared best practices, and discussed joint drills. By spotlighting collective readiness and shared accountability, MACL affirmed runway safety as a cornerstone of overall airport performance.
Why Safety Now Matters More Than Ever
Velana International Airport recently completed construction of its new Code-F runway, a multi-billion-dollar upgrade designed to boost capacity and resilience . In this context, reinforcing runway safety procedures is non-negotiable. The LRST meeting greatly advances the integration of upgraded infrastructure with standardized oversight.
