Greater Male’ Region experienced stormy weather conditions on Sunday, 17th July, due to which Velana International Airport (VIA) faced several plane diversions.
According to Mr. Shamman Shakir, the Corporate Communications Manager of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), five planes which included both international and domestic flights were diverted from landing at VIA tarmac due to torrential rain and strong winds.
International carriers that were diverted from making landings at the runway include one flying in from Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Another domestic flight was diverted to Maamigili before granting permission to land back in Velana International Airport. “The flights were diverted to the safest airport because of poor visibility,” comments Mr. Shakir.
Maldives Meteorological Service confirms heavy rainfall coupled with strong gusts and wind are expected to remain prevalent across the Maldives throughout the week.
The Maldives capital, Male’ City experienced heavy rainfall since Sunday afternoon, flooding its streets creating further traffic congestion in the densely populated island.