Velana International Airport’s long-awaited new terminal began operations yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the Maldives’ aviation development. The first service at the new facility featured the national carrier Maldivian’s A330 wide-body aircraft, arriving from Cochin in the afternoon.
Passengers on the inaugural flight were received at the terminal, with the airline’s cabin crew dressed in traditional Maldivian attire to commemorate the occasion. Maldivian Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas confirmed the flight landed at 2pm and was the first to be served at the new terminal.
All Maldivian flights will now operate from the new terminal. Other airlines are expected to be gradually incorporated into operations over the coming weeks, with the goal of full integration by September.
The terminal was developed over a nine-year period, with upgraded infrastructure, and Velana International Airport is expected to serve up to 7.5 million passengers annually.
The launch was celebrated on Independence day with a festive ceremony organised by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), featuring fireworks and a drone show.
The operational rollout of the terminal signals a new era for the country’s primary international gateway, enhancing capacity and passenger experience as the Maldives continues to grow as a global travel destination.
