A Flydubai aircraft experienced significant damage during a ground handling incident at Velana International Airport (MLE) in the Maldives on December 4, 2025. The Dubai-based carrier confirmed all passengers and crew members safely disembarked without injuries and were rebooked on subsequent flights.
The aviation incident resulted in structural damage to the aircraft’s wing section, prompting an immediate comprehensive inspection. Flydubai officials emphasized that the damaged aircraft will undergo extensive repairs to meet stringent international aviation safety standards before returning to service.
This occurrence highlights operational challenges at Maldives’ primary aviation gateway, which has been experiencing congestion due to soaring tourist arrivals. The island nation, renowned as a premium vacation destination for UAE residents and international travelers, is currently expanding its airport infrastructure to accommodate growing passenger traffic.
Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim previously disclosed that Velana International Airport’s new terminal, scheduled for operational readiness by year-end, will significantly enhance capacity to 7 million passengers annually. This development aims to alleviate current congestion issues.
The Maldives incident follows another aviation safety occurrence involving an Emirates Airbus A380 at Manchester Airport, where a fuel tanker collision caused engine cowling damage. Both incidents underscore the aviation industry’s ongoing focus on ground operation safety protocols.
Flydubai reiterated that passenger and crew safety remains their utmost priority, consistent with the airline’s operational philosophy and international aviation regulations.