Velana International Airport (VIA) has achieved its highest-ever daily air cargo export volume, with 114 tonnes of freight shipped in a single day, underscoring continued growth in the Maldives’ air cargo sector.
The milestone was announced by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), which said the new figure surpasses the airport’s previous daily export record of 100 tonnes.
MACL also reported strong growth in overall cargo exports during the first half of 2026. Between January and June, a total of 7,928 tonnes of cargo was exported through VIA, representing a 15 percent increase compared to the 6,879 tonnes handled during the same period last year.
According to the company, March was the busiest month for air cargo exports this year, with 1,791 tonnes transported through the airport.
The latest figures reflect increasing demand for the air transportation of Maldivian exports, particularly high-value and time-sensitive goods such as seafood, which rely on efficient international logistics to reach overseas markets.
MACL also released details of cargo transshipment activity at VIA during the first six months of the year.
For inbound transshipments, Afcom Holding Pvt Ltd handled the largest share, accounting for 27 percent of total volumes, followed by SriLankan Airlines with 25 percent.
On the outbound side, Turkish Airlines and British Airways each accounted for 14 percent of transshipment volumes, while Aeroflot handled 12 percent.
MACL said the continued increase in cargo volumes reinforces Velana International Airport’s growing role as a regional air cargo and transshipment hub, supporting both international trade and the Maldives’ export sector.
As the country’s main international gateway, VIA plays a critical role in facilitating the export of fresh fish and other perishable products, while also serving as a key logistics hub for imports and transshipment services.
