Velana International Airport (VIA) has launched a smart gate service to facilitate convenient customs clearance for passengers.
With the new smart gate service, luggage that needs to be checked by Customs will be marked with radio frequency identification (RFID) tags instead of red stickers.
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) which operates VIA, said the owner of the RFID-tagged luggage will have to go to the Red Channel for Customs clearance.
The smart gate will identify the luggage of passengers who try to leave without Customs clearance and turn on an alarm.
MACL further said the clearance process for passengers who need clearance from the Green Channel will be fast-tracked and more convenient.
The smart gate service was included to be achieved in the first 100 days of the government.
The service was launched by MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef.
The service was launched by MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed at a special ceremony held at the VIA passenger terminal this morning.
The ceremony was attended by Commissioner General of Customs Yoosuf Maaniu Mohamed, senior management of Customs and MACL and other relevant agencies.
Speaking at the ceremony, Shareef said the smart gate introduced by Customs will improve the quality of service provided to passengers.
“We are ready to work with the airport stakeholders and enforcement agencies to make this airport more convenient for the passengers. Today, we have launched an important service. This will speed up the service to passengers and reduce inconveniences,” he said.
MACL said the installation of the smart gate service will speed up the clearance of passengers at the airport.
Additionally, MACL said the service will further strengthen the prevention of crimes such as terrorism, money laundering and human trafficking and prevent the smuggling of drugs and prohibited items.
