As the Maldives gets ready to unveil its largest and most advanced airport terminal, the excitement is building both locally and globally. With the grand opening of the new international passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) just around the corner, the nation stands at the edge of a bold new era in travel, tourism, and connectivity.
This milestone marks not only a technological leap in airport infrastructure, but a moment to celebrate the historic journey of Velana International Airport—a gateway that has transformed the Maldives from a remote archipelago into one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
From a Slotted Steel Runway to a Global Travel Hub: The Journey of VIA
The evolution of Velana International Airport began with humble origins in the 1960s:
- 1960 – First runway opened on Hulhulé Island
- 1964 – Replaced with permanent asphalt runway
- 1972 – First dedicated passenger terminal building
- 1978–1994 – Infrastructure expanded; MACL established
- 2011–2017 – From “Ibrahim Nasir” to “Velana” International Airport
- 2018 – First landing of the Airbus A380
- 2022 – Opening of the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal (world’s largest)
- 2024 – New fuel farm, cargo terminal, and ICAO Category 9 fire station commissioned
Today, Velana International Airport is ready to welcome a brand-new terminal that can serve up to 7 million passengers annually, ensuring the Maldives remains a leader in global tourism.
The New Terminal: A Game-Changer for Maldives Aviation
With its upcoming launch, the new terminal promises:
- Modern departure lounges, gates, and boarding systems
- Smart digital passenger processing and security systems
- Greater capacity for international airlines and charters
- Enhanced fuel storage (45 million litres) and cargo handling
- World-class fire & rescue systems (ICAO Cat 9)
This is not just an infrastructure project, it’s a strategic move that cements Maldives’ position in the aviation map for high-value tourism, luxury travel, and sustainable development.
Experience the New Gateway with LetsGoMaldives
As the country prepares for this historic opening, LetsGoMaldives, your trusted local expert with 20+ years of destination management experience, is ready to elevate your journey:
- Airport Concierge & VIP Meet-and-Greet
- CIP Lounge Access with fast-track clearance
- Seamless inter-island transfers via seaplane & domestic flights
- Tailor-made itineraries to over 170+ resorts
- Exclusive airport support for private jets & charters
Whether you’re a tourist, investor, or visiting dignitary, LetsGoMaldives ensures a smooth, luxurious, and efficient travel experience through the new terminal and beyond.
The Countdown Has Begun
The opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport isn’t just a construction milestone, it’s a bold declaration of Maldives’ future. A future where luxury meets technology, and where the Maldivian spirit of hospitality begins the moment you land.
Get ready to fly into the future — Maldives style.
Velana International Airport – The Gateway to Paradise
LetsGoMaldives – Your Local Expert in Luxury Travel
