Velana International Airport (VIA) has officially commenced operations at its state-of-the-art passenger terminal, marking a significant milestone in the Maldives’ aviation and tourism infrastructure. The inaugural commercial arrival at the new terminal took place yesterday with the landing of Maldivian flight 707 2Q from Cochin International Airport, India.
The Airbus A330, operated by the national carrier Island Aviation Services, carried 112 passengers who were warmly welcomed at the new terminal with a traditional water salute and vibrant boduberu performances. The event underscored the terminal’s operational debut and the government’s broader commitment to enhancing the country’s status as a global travel hub.
A special welcoming ceremony was held at the terminal today, attended by senior government and industry officials. Among those present were Finance Minister Moosa Zameer, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen, and Tourism and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim. Top executives from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL)—including Chairperson Aishath Nurain Janah, CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, and Deputy Managing Directors Mohamed Lamaan and Mujthaba Latheef—also took part in the reception.
Representatives from Island Aviation Services, including Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas and Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem, were also in attendance. To commemorate the occasion, Finance Minister Zameer presented a special plaque to Island Aviation Services on behalf of MACL, acknowledging their role in the historic landing.
The new passenger terminal—designed to meet growing international travel demands—is set to become the primary gateway for all inbound and outbound airline operations at VIA. According to MACL, the transition of airline services will proceed in phases, airline by airline, ensuring compliance with both local and international regulatory standards. The full transfer is expected to be completed ahead of the upcoming peak tourism season.
This latest development follows President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s strategic vision to elevate the Maldives’ air transport infrastructure in alignment with the country’s economic and tourism ambitions. Once fully operational, the new terminal is expected to significantly boost VIA’s passenger handling capacity, streamline traveler experience, and reinforce the Maldives’ position as a premier luxury destination in the Indian Ocean.
The launch of the terminal also complements recent expansions in airport facilities across the nation, aimed at supporting the government’s decentralization and connectivity agendas. As tourism remains the backbone of the Maldivian economy, the enhanced gateway is anticipated to drive increased tourist arrivals, stimulate economic activity, and attract greater investment into the hospitality sector.
With the first flight successfully received and transition plans underway, VIA’s new terminal sets a promising tone for the future of air travel in the Maldives.
