In response to the recent escalation of hostilities following coordinated United States and Israeli strikes on Iran, all Middle East‑bound and originating carriers at Velana International Airport (VIA) have been grounded, according to an urgent internal operations advisory from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).
Internal MACL communications indicate that rapidly shifting airspace restrictions over parts of the Middle East have prompted the suspension of numerous inbound and outbound flights as a precautionary safety measure.
In a dramatic turn of events, a flydubai service departing Malé was forced to abort its journey mid‑flight due to airspace complications, and is now diverting back to VIA.
Data from live flight tracking services reveal extensive rerouting and aircraft holding patterns throughout Gulf and Iranian flight corridors as authorities implement airspace closures. Earlier today, Iran closed sections of its airspace in the aftermath of the strikes, prompting a ripple effect of diversions and service suspensions at major aviation hubs, including Dubai and Doha.
The disruption is anticipated to result in significant delays for passengers travelling between the Maldives and key Middle Eastern transit points.
Airport officials are urging travellers to stay in regular contact with their respective airlines for the latest departure information and further travel guidance as the situation continues to unfold.
