Velana International Airport (VIA) is poised to inaugurate a significant addition to its infrastructure, with a portion of its new terminal scheduled to commence operations on July 26, 2025, coinciding with the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations.
At the recent Aviation Forum held at Hulhulé Island Hotel, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Chief Technology Officer, Shafeeu Ahmed, highlighted the advancements underway to enhance passenger services at VIA. He announced that the new terminal will feature self-service check-in kiosks, automated baggage drop systems, and an advanced baggage handling system, aiming to streamline the travel experience for passengers.
The terminal, encompassing 78,000 square meters, is designed to accommodate up to 7.5 million passengers annually, a significant increase from the current terminal’s capacity. It will initially operate with six airbridges, facilitating more efficient boarding processes. Within three months of the initial opening, all services from the existing terminal are expected to transition to the new facility.
The development of the new terminal is supported by substantial international funding, including USD 100 million from Saudi financing and an additional USD 80 million from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), bringing the total project investment to MVR 7 billion. To meet the ambitious timeline, approximately 600 workers are engaged in the construction, dedicating nearly 18 hours a day to expedite completion.
Key Features of the New Terminal:
- 78,000 square meters of space
- Capacity to serve 8,000 passengers daily
- 38 immigration counters
- 7 additional check-in counters
- Self-service kiosks for faster processing
- 20% increase in passenger handling efficiency
The new terminal is a pivotal component of the Maldives’ broader strategy to modernize its aviation sector and bolster its status as a premier travel destination. With the anticipated increase in air travel demand, the expansion of VIA is expected to play a crucial role in supporting both tourism growth and international connectivity.
As the nation approaches Independence Day 2025, the opening of the new terminal stands as a testament to the Maldives’ commitment to enhancing its infrastructure and providing world-class services to travelers.
