Velana International Airport (VIA) will begin handling international check-in operations for 10 airlines at Terminal 2 from October 25, as airport operator Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) moves to expand passenger handling capacity ahead of the peak winter tourism season.
The arrangement will see international check-in services operating across both passenger terminals, providing additional space and facilities to accommodate the anticipated increase in travellers during one of the busiest periods for the Maldives’ tourism industry.
Under the new arrangement, passengers travelling with Neos, Aeroflot, US-Bangla Airlines, Centrum Air, Azur Air, S7 Airlines, Shirak Avia, Kuwait Airways, Gulliv Air and French Bee will be required to complete their check-in procedures at Terminal 2.
MACL confirmed that the 10 airlines will continue operating their check-in services from the terminal throughout the winter season.
The decision is intended to distribute passenger traffic more effectively between the airport’s terminals, reducing pressure on existing check-in facilities as international flight operations increase.
Terminal 2, which previously served as VIA’s main international terminal, was reopened in February 2026 following an extensive refurbishment programme.
Since reopening, the facility has been used for domestic flight operations, offering passengers upgraded infrastructure and improved amenities.
The refurbished terminal features 27 check-in counters, new baggage handling belts, food and beverage outlets, dedicated prayer facilities and a children’s play area.
These facilities will now also support international check-in operations, allowing MACL to make greater use of the airport’s existing infrastructure during the high-demand travel period.
The move comes as Velana International Airport continues to expand its passenger handling capabilities to meet the growing requirements of the country’s aviation and tourism sectors.
The airport serves as the Maldives’ principal international gateway, handling the majority of visitors arriving in the country and providing connections to domestic airports and resort destinations across the archipelago.
Passenger traffic typically increases during the winter tourism season, when the Maldives attracts significant numbers of holidaymakers from European and other international markets.
The period also sees increased demand for scheduled and seasonal international flights, placing additional pressure on airport facilities, particularly during peak departure hours.
By assigning selected airlines to Terminal 2, MACL aims to ease congestion at check-in areas and improve passenger movement through the airport.
The operational change follows a period of major infrastructure development at VIA, including the introduction of its new international passenger terminal as part of the airport’s wider modernisation programme.
The expansion of terminal facilities is intended to support the Maldives’ long-term tourism growth by improving airport capacity, passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
The use of Terminal 2 for international check-in represents an additional measure to maximise available facilities while accommodating seasonal changes in passenger demand.
MACL has advised passengers departing on the 10 affected airlines from October 25 onwards to proceed directly to Terminal 2 for check-in.
Travellers have also been encouraged to arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete check-in, security screening and other departure formalities.
The company said it remains focused on maintaining safe and efficient airport operations while improving the overall travel experience for passengers.
With the winter tourism season approaching, the expanded use of Terminal 2 is expected to provide additional check-in capacity and help the airport manage increased international passenger movements.
