Noovilu Seaplane Terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) has added to its growing list of awards after being bestowed the Engineering News-Records 2022 Global Best Projects Awards (ENR). The terminal received special recognition in the Merit of Airport/Port category. Project teams responsible for the year's most remarkable design and construction efforts from around the world are identified and honored by ENR's Global Best Projects.

Noovilu was represented by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the VIA operating company, which accepted the honor on its behalf. The 10th annual ENR Global Projects Awards was held virtually on December 12. This year saw 34 winning projects from 18 different nations fighting for the crowns in a total of 18 categories - picked by a panel of industry judges. 

Cocoon Lounge at Noovilu seaplane terminal.

The Noovilu Seaplane Terminal stood out to ENR Global Projects in a number of ways. Despite all the obstacles caused by the COVID-19 epidemic and its related challenges, the team's exceptional performance in meeting the deadline was applauded. The crew overcame these obstacles—which included travel restrictions, a labor shortage, and supply-chain disruptions—to open the terminal on schedule.

The awards also recognized the team's efforts to follow Maldivian environmental regulations by closely monitoring building activities and minimizing any harmful effects on the environment, in particular the nearby coral reefs and marine species.

The 28,000 square meters, four-story seaplane port offers a modern setting for the biggest seaplane operations in the entire globe. A floating dock area at the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal has the ability to perfectly and cogently handle 55 seaplanes. The terminal is comprehensive with boarding gates, offices, and operational areas in addition to multiple large lounges from various resort companies. On October 6, 2022, the terminal was formally inaugurated.