Maldives Airports Company Limited has formalised two strategic cooperation agreements with the Maldives Police Service and Maldives National Air Traffic Services to strengthen emergency response, disaster management, and operational coordination at Velana International Airport.
The agreements were signed at a ceremony held at Hulhule Island Hotel, underscoring a renewed institutional commitment to safeguarding the country’s primary aviation gateway. Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen represented the Police Service, while MNATS Managing Director Ibrahim Thoha signed on behalf of the national air navigation service provider. MACL was represented by its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed.
Under the newly signed frameworks, the three institutions have clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and operational protocols to be activated during emergencies or disaster scenarios. The agreements place strong emphasis on joint coordination, rapid communication, and structured command arrangements, all aimed at enhancing safety, security, and continuity of airport operations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed described Velana International Airport as a critical pillar of the Maldivian economy, supporting tourism, trade, and national connectivity. He stressed that preparedness for any emergency scenario at the airport requires continuous collaboration across multiple agencies, including law enforcement, air traffic services, health authorities, and other relevant institutions.
He noted that MACL’s approach to emergency readiness is built on proactive planning rather than reactive response, adding that effective preparedness can only be achieved through strong inter-agency cooperation and regular operational alignment.
Commissioner Ismail Naveen reaffirmed the long-standing collaboration between the Police Service and MACL in airport-related security and emergency matters. He stated that the formalisation of these agreements further strengthens mutual support mechanisms, ensuring that airport users, staff, and national infrastructure remain protected at all times.
MNATS Managing Director Ibrahim Thoha highlighted the technical and operational importance of air traffic services in emergency scenarios, particularly in maintaining safe aircraft movements and airspace management. He expressed appreciation to all parties involved in finalising the agreements and paid special recognition to the Airport Emergency Services team for their role in preparedness planning.
Senior officials from MACL, the Police Service, and MNATS were present at the signing ceremony, reflecting a unified institutional commitment to strengthening emergency resilience at Velana International Airport as passenger volumes and operational complexity continue to grow.
