Air France has officially commenced operations from Terminal 1 of Velana International Airport, marking another milestone in the Maldives’ expanding aviation connectivity.
The launch was commemorated with a formal ceremony held at the new terminal earlier today, attended by senior aviation stakeholders. Among those present was Ahmed Maumoon, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Accountable Manager of Manta Aviation, alongside top executives and officials from Maldives Airports Company Limited.
As part of the inauguration, Air France’s check-in counters at Terminal 1 were officially opened. Fifty-one departing passengers received commemorative gifts, while 332 inbound passengers arriving on flight AF268 were welcomed with traditional Maldivian cultural performances, underscoring the country’s signature hospitality.
Air France becomes the first French carrier to operate from Terminal 1. The airline initially launched flights to the Maldives on November 2, 2017, and has since played a key role in strengthening air links between the Maldives and continental Europe.
With the addition of Air France, Terminal 1 now serves 34 international airlines. MACL has reiterated that the new terminal is designed to deliver enhanced passenger experience, improved operational efficiency, and world-class services for airlines operating to the Maldives, aligning with the country’s long-term aviation and tourism growth strategy.
