China Eastern Airlines has officially commenced services at Velana International Airport’s new Terminal 1, marking a significant enhancement to Maldives China air connectivity. The inaugural arrival on 10 December 2023 was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute, symbolising the airline’s transition to the state of the art terminal.
We welcomed China Eastern to Terminal 1 with a ceremonial water salute. The Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency Mr. Kong Xianhua, our CEO & MD, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, senior management, China Eastern Airlines Maldives Office General Manager Li Jia, and Villa Travels Station… pic.twitter.com/HrTrz3jntd
— Maldives Airports Company Ltd (@MACLmedia) December 10, 2025
His Excellency Mr. Kong Xianhua, Ambassador of China to the Maldives, joined MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, senior management, China Eastern Airlines Maldives Office General Manager Li Jia, and Villa Travels Station Manager Mohamed Fayaz to greet the passengers as they entered Terminal 1.
As part of the launch, China Eastern Airlines opened its dedicated check in counters at the new facility. Gifts were presented to the 241 passengers on the first departure, and a traditional cultural welcome was arranged for the 227 passengers arriving on flight MU235.
China Eastern Airlines, one of China’s largest state owned carriers, has operated to the Maldives since 28 April 2007. Its move to Terminal 1 makes it the fourth Chinese airline to join the new terminal’s operations.
With China Eastern Airlines now integrated into Terminal 1, the number of airlines operating from the terminal has increased to 30. MACL noted that the expansion strengthens its commitment to delivering high quality, comprehensive service standards for all carriers operating to the Maldives.
