Velana International Airport (VIA) officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art international passenger terminal on Tuesday, with Air Arabia becoming the first international carrier to operate from the new facility. The milestone marks a significant advancement in the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure, showcasing a modern gateway designed to enhance passenger experience and support the country’s growing tourism sector.
The 72,000 square metre Terminal 1 was initially opened on Maldives’ Independence Day, July 26, with a phased operational approach that began by serving Maldivian international passengers. Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the airport’s operator, has outlined a carefully planned three-month transition period to ensure smooth implementation in line with international aviation standards.
The terminal boasts an impressive array of cutting-edge features designed to optimize passenger comfort and operational efficiency. Key infrastructure highlights include:
• 12 passenger boarding bridges
• 47 traditional check-in counters
• 24 dedicated seaplane check-in counters
• Advanced baggage handling system with real-time tracking capabilities
• Enhanced immigration facilities, including electronic gates
• Comprehensive passenger flow infrastructure with 41 elevators, 14 escalators, and 4 travellators
Designed with a unique aesthetic that celebrates the Maldives’ natural beauty, the terminal seamlessly blends modern architectural functionality with local design elements. Intricate wall patterns draw inspiration from the archipelago’s stunning environmental landscape, creating a welcoming and distinctly Maldivian atmosphere for international travelers.
The strategic development aims to significantly expand the airport’s capabilities, with the facility engineered to support an annual passenger capacity of seven million. Airport officials anticipate the new terminal will be instrumental in attracting additional airline partnerships, increasing flight frequencies, and positioning the Maldives as a pivotal regional aviation hub.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, the terminal represents a critical investment in the country’s tourism infrastructure. By providing world-class facilities, the Maldives demonstrates its commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences and supporting continued growth in its crucial tourism sector.
As the first international carrier to operate from the new terminal, Air Arabia’s inaugural flight symbolizes the beginning of a new era for Velana International Airport and the Maldives’ aviation landscape.
