A new chapter in Maldives aviation began today as Velana International Airport (VIA) officially commenced operations at its newly inaugurated international terminal. The milestone follows the formal opening ceremony held last night and signals the start of a phased transition that will significantly enhance the country’s air travel infrastructure.
A Historic First Arrival
The first flight to be processed at the state-of-the-art terminal was a Maldivian Airbus A330, arriving from Kochi, India, around 2:00 p.m. The moment was celebrated with a warm welcome at one of the terminal’s 12 modern aerobridges, as Maldivian cabin crew proudly donned traditional Dhivehi attire, marking the cultural significance of the occasion.
This inaugural service highlights the government’s commitment to prioritizing the national airline for initial operations at the new terminal, as reaffirmed by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
Transition Underway for Full Operations
Following this successful operation, all Maldivian flights have officially shifted to the new terminal. The next phase of the rollout will focus on accommodating narrow-body aircraft from a group of nine selected international carriers. This trial period will run over the next three months, with the goal of fully transitioning all 34 airlines currently operating to VIA by September 2025.
Enhanced Efficiency and Passenger Experience
Developed to meet the needs of growing international travel demand, the new terminal is equipped to serve up to 7.5 million passengers annually. Operated by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the facility boasts:
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47 check-in counters
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Six self-service kiosks
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Faster processing times, with up to 30% improved efficiency compared to the previous terminal
The design combines cutting-edge functionality with a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the Maldives’ culture and hospitality, offering travelers a seamless and elevated airport experience.