The operator of Malé International Airport has awarded a contract to French automated turnkey solutions firm Alstef Group for the upgrade of the facility’s baggage handling system (BHS).

The gateway – which is located on Hulhule Island in the North Male Atoll, near the main island of Male – serves as a gateway for tourists to the popular Maldives islands.

As the only international airport serving the area, the site also includes a seaplane terminal for tourists to access the surrounding island resorts.

The baggage system project includes an outbound Hold-Bag Screening upgrade with the integration of four new EDS machines delivering screened bags to four make-up laterals.

The company says it will implement its high-level sortation control software and integrate a new Baggage Reconciliation System (BRS) to reduce security risks and lost bags.

The contract also includes the extension of four inbound carousels and an upgrade of the carousel drive units.

Rajesh Kalra, Alstef Group’s general manager Asia, said: “Glidepath, now part of the Alstef Group, has been working with Malé Airport since 1990. Our thorough understanding of the existing BHS and our extensive knowledge of performing upgrades in operational airports without impacting operations, assisted in preparing a winning proposal.”

The installation is set to start at the end of May next year after the peak tourist season has ended.