Velana International Airport (VIA) officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art international passenger terminal on Tuesday, with Air Arabia marking a significant milestone as the first international carrier to operate from the new facility. The 72,000 square metre Terminal 1 represents a major advancement in the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure, promising enhanced passenger experience and increased operational capacity.
Initially opened on Maldives’ Independence Day (26 July), the terminal first served Maldivian’s international passengers exclusively. Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the airport’s operator, has outlined a carefully planned three-month transition process aligned with international best practices.
The strategic implementation involves a phased approach, with MACL engaging Modalis Infrastructure Partners Inc. to oversee the terminal’s transition and ensure compliance with global safety and service standards. Following Maldivian’s initial two-week exclusive use, the terminal will progressively accommodate seven identified airlines, with full operational capacity anticipated before the upcoming tourist season.
The new terminal boasts impressive infrastructure designed to significantly enhance passenger experience and airport efficiency. Key features include:
• 12 passenger boarding bridges
• 47 traditional check-in counters
• 24 dedicated seaplane check-in counters
• Advanced baggage handling system with real-time tracking
• Enhanced immigration facilities, including e-gates
• Comprehensive passenger flow infrastructure with 41 elevators, 14 escalators, and 4 travellators
The facility is engineered to support an annual passenger capacity of seven million, representing a substantial upgrade to the Maldives’ aviation capabilities. Architecturally, the terminal showcases a unique design philosophy that integrates local aesthetic elements, with wall patterns inspired by the Maldives’ natural environment seamlessly blending modern functionality with cultural representation.
Beyond its immediate operational benefits, the new terminal is strategically positioned to attract additional airline partnerships and increase flight frequencies. MACL officials anticipate the facility will play a crucial role in strengthening the Maldives’ position as a regional aviation hub, with direct positive implications for the country’s vital tourism industry.
The terminal’s sophisticated infrastructure and thoughtful design signal a significant leap forward for Maldivian aviation, promising improved connectivity, enhanced passenger comfort, and increased operational efficiency for international travelers.
