Velana International Airport has completed a major operational milestone, with all airline services now fully consolidated at the newly built Terminal 1. The transition, confirmed on December 31, marks the formal start of full-scale operations at the facility and represents a transformative step in the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure.
Terminal 1 was officially inaugurated on July 26, 2025, during a nationally significant ceremony held to coincide with the Republic of Maldives’ Independence Day. The opening was officiated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, underscoring the project’s strategic importance to the country’s long-term economic and tourism ambitions.
Since its inauguration, the terminal has rapidly scaled up operations. It currently serves 41 international airlines and has already handled more than 600,000 passengers, reflecting strong airline confidence and robust passenger demand within its first months of service.
To mark the successful completion of the operational migration, a commemorative ceremony was held at the airport, attended by senior management of Maldives Airports Company Limited. The event was led by MACL’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, who joined staff in celebrating the milestone with a ceremonial cake-cutting.
Addressing employees, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed paid tribute to the extraordinary commitment demonstrated by MACL staff throughout the terminal’s preparation and launch phase. He noted that teams worked extended hours and made significant personal sacrifices to ensure the terminal was operational in time for its July inauguration, describing the effort as a reflection of strong institutional unity and purpose.
He further emphasized that the successful delivery of Terminal 1 was not only an achievement for MACL, but a meaningful contribution to national development. Expressing pride in the workforce, he urged employees to sustain their collaborative momentum and ambition as the company moves into the new year, with the goal of further enhancing service quality, operational excellence, and international competitiveness.
The full transition to Terminal 1 positions Velana International Airport to better accommodate rising passenger volumes, support continued tourism growth, and reinforce the Maldives’ status as a leading global destination with modern, world-class aviation facilities.
