Malé – July 26, 2025:
Following the official inauguration of the new international terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) today, international airline executives have hailed the facility as a game-changer for the Maldives’ aviation and tourism industries.
The opening ceremony, held on Independence Day, was attended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, former presidents Mohamed Nasheed and Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan, cabinet ministers, and foreign dignitaries. The terminal, one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country’s history, is now entering a phased operational rollout.
Airlines Give Green Light
Top executives from airlines including Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Malaysia Airlines took part in recent operational trials and praised the new facility’s readiness and design.
“Airlines have long awaited world-class infrastructure in the Maldives. This terminal delivers exactly that,” said Munaz Ali of Etihad Airways.
A Qatar Airways representative noted the terminal offers “a strong first impression” to millions of international visitors, while Malaysia Airlines described it as “beautiful and built for passengers.”
Operational Readiness
The new terminal covers 78,000 square metres and increases passenger capacity from 1.5 million to over 7 million annually. It includes:
Aerobridges
Smart immigration counters
Self check-in kiosks
Advanced baggage systems
Air-conditioned corridors connecting to domestic and seaplane terminals
The terminal has reached 90% operational readiness, according to officials, with the remaining finishing touches to retail, lounges, and premium services ongoing.
Phased Transition Underway
Phase 1A – July 26: Maldivian Airlines begins operations with A320 and A330 aircraft.
Phase 1B – August: Nine international airlines including Beond, Air Arabia, Oman Air, XiamenAir, FitsAir and others will shift to the new terminal.
Phase 2 – September: All international flights will fully operate from the new terminal. Seaplane check-in will remain at the existing terminal until late September.
At least three aerobridges are operational from Day 1, with more expected to come online in the weeks ahead.
