The Maldives maintains strict aviation security in line with its island geography and tourism focus. The government’s Aviation Security Command (AVSECOM), under the Ministry of Defense, manages security at Velana International Airport (VIA) with support from the Maldives National Defence Force and police. In June 2025, VIA also inaugurated a new terminal equipped with “state-of-the-art security technologies” and an advanced baggage handling system to meet global security standard. Every arriving and departing passenger is subject to screening procedures similar to international norms: X-ray scanning of carry-ons, metal-detector checks, and random secondary inspections. The Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) oversees these processes and coordinates with island-wide aviation security policies.
Continuum Aviation’s Maldives security services are tailored to this environment. Our team assists operators by pre-clearing passenger manifests with AVSECOM, arranging escorts on arrival, and briefing crews on local protocols. We ensure all staff on the ground are vetted, and we integrate with airport security to maintain vigilance throughout the journey. For charter flights, we help coordinate with MCAA for required advance notices and ensure carry-on regulations are followed. By leveraging the Maldives’ strong emphasis on global security compliance and adding our own layers of service (such as on-call concierge for late-night arrivals), Continuum ensures clients experience safe, hassle-free operations at Maldivian airports.
The Aviation Security Command (AVSECOM, Defense Ministry) runs screening at VIA, aided by MNDF troops and police. MCAA/DASA ensures adherence to international standards.
Normal airline-style security: remove laptops, limit liquids, pass through scanners. Random bag checks or pat-downs may occur. Special attention is paid to contraband, given Maldives’ strict drug laws.
Most nationalities get a free 30-day visa on arrival. Crews need valid passports and an IMUGA travel declaration (submitted before travel) – Continuum will help complete this.
The expanded Velana Terminal meets all global security requirements. It features cutting-edge baggage screening and CCTV to give passengers “greater assurance” during processing.
While Maldives doesn’t have a formal “fast lane”, Continuum liaises with AVSECOM to streamline any transfers. For diplomatic or special operations, we coordinate directly for any expedited handling.
Travelers must declare over USD 10,000 on arrival. Liquor and cigarettes have limited allowances. Continuum advises on declarations and can assist at customs counters if needed.
Currently, immigration at VIA is manual. Continuum staff will meet you, confirm documents (passport valid 6+ months), and escort through immigration to customs.
Yes, regular patrols and a customs police unit secure arrivals. Continuum’s team maintains communication with them in case of any issues.
Checked bags go through strict screening machines. Since Maldives is strict on contraband, ensure your cargo holds nothing suspicious. Continuum can advise on any customs paperwork for special equipment.
The airport is secure and modern. For extra security, Continuum can arrange guarded convoy or bonded storage (at Male free trade zone) for valuable shipments.
Find any uniformed security officer, or call AVSECOM (duty number typically posted at the terminal). Continuum’s 24/7 desk in Male can also escalate incidents.
No in-flight marshals in Maldives. However, we ensure your ground handling is tight, and we can recommend vetted charter pilots with flight crew security experience.
Always wear visible IDs; keep passports on you; only use authorized ground vehicles. Continuum staff will assist with all formalities.
Rarely. Thanks to AVSECOM’s efficiency, screenings are quick. We build in margin time, so Continuum ensures your schedule accounts for routine checks.
The friendly staff and layout make most arrivals smooth. Pre-clearance by Continuum (we confirm forms/passports) can make lines faster – usually 10-15 minutes from plane to exit.
Specialising in both international and domestic aircrafts, we seamlessly manage arrivals, departures, and all aspects of ground support.
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