Velana International Airport has reached a significant milestone with beOnd becoming the third airline to commence services from its newly renovated Terminal 1. The luxury carrier’s inaugural flight marks another step in the terminal’s phased operational expansion.
A ceremonial ribbon-cutting event celebrated the airline’s arrival, attended by key government and airport officials, including Minister Ali Arif from the President’s Office and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) leadership. MACL’s CEO Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Deputy Managing Director Mohamed Lamaan, and board members joined beOnd representatives to commemorate the occasion.
The launch ceremony featured a special welcome for passengers, with 43 departing travelers receiving commemorative gifts. Flight B4091, beOnd’s inaugural service to the terminal, was honored with a traditional water salute—a symbolic gesture in aviation marking significant milestones. An additional 35 arriving passengers were greeted with vibrant cultural performances showcasing traditional Maldivian hospitality.
Terminal 1’s strategic design accommodates a diverse range of carriers, from national airlines to budget and luxury operators. The facility is currently in a dynamic phase of expansion, with four additional airlines expected to relocate to the terminal this month. This development underscores MACL’s commitment to creating a comprehensive and modern aviation hub that supports both tourism and international travel.
The terminal’s phased implementation reflects a carefully planned approach to enhancing the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure. By progressively integrating multiple airlines and providing state-of-the-art facilities, Velana International Airport is positioning itself as a premier gateway for international travelers.
As beOnd joins Maldivian and Air Arabia in operating from Terminal 1, the airport continues to demonstrate its adaptability and commitment to serving a growing and diverse range of airline partners. The successful integration of the luxury carrier represents another positive step in the terminal’s ongoing development.
