Singapore Airlines has officially begun operations from Velana International Airport’s newly opened Terminal 1, marking another major milestone in the terminal’s phased expansion and the airport’s push to elevate passenger experience standards.
The transition was commemorated with a ceremonial event held at Terminal 1, attended by senior aviation and corporate figures. Dhiraagu Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Ismail Rasheed graced the occasion, alongside Maldives Airports Company Limited CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed. Singapore Airlines was represented by its General Manager, Haaziq Sulaiman, together with MACL’s senior management team.
As part of the inaugural operations, Singapore Airlines’ dedicated check-in counters at Terminal 1 were officially opened. A total of 205 outbound passengers received commemorative gifts, while 244 passengers arriving on flight SQ432 were welcomed with traditional Maldivian cultural performances, underscoring the terminal’s focus on premium hospitality.
The arrival of flight SQ432 also carried symbolic significance for the airport. Operated by an Airbus A350, the service marked the first time Terminal 1 handled the advanced wide-body aircraft type, highlighting the terminal’s readiness to accommodate next-generation long-haul operations.
Singapore Airlines has maintained a long-standing presence in the Maldivian market, having first launched flights to the country on March 28, 1984. Its move to Terminal 1 reflects both the airline’s operational scale and the airport’s strategy to consolidate leading international carriers within its newest facility.
With Singapore Airlines now operating from Terminal 1, the terminal serves 32 international airlines. MACL has reiterated that the objective of the new terminal is to deliver a comprehensive, high-standard service environment that meets the expectations of global airlines while enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers arriving in and departing from the Maldives.
