Exciting news for travelers heading to the Maldives! Velana International Airport (VIA) has officially opened its brand-new international terminal, making travel to this island paradise easier and more comfortable than ever. This launch marks a big step forward in upgrading the country’s airport facilities to handle more flights and passengers in the years ahead.
First Flight Lands at the New Terminal
The first arrival? A Maldivian Airbus A330 flying in from Kochi, India — landing around 2:00 p.m. The new terminal welcomed passengers with a true Maldivian touch: local airline crew dressed in traditional Dhivehi attire to celebrate the occasion. This special moment reflects the strong focus on keeping things authentically Maldivian while modernizing the travel experience.
What’s Next? A Gradual Shift for All Airlines
All flights from the national airline, Maldivian, are now using the new terminal. Over the next three months, a group of international airlines will also start operating here, as part of a test phase. The plan is to have all 34 international carriers moved into the new terminal by September 2025.
Faster, Better, Smoother Travel
This spacious new terminal is designed to handle up to 7.5 million passengers each year, a huge leap from before. Travelers can look forward to:
- 47 check-in counters
- 6 self-service kiosks
- Quicker check-in and immigration – up to 30% faster!
Whether you’re arriving for a dream vacation or heading back home, the new space offers a blend of modern convenience and warm Maldivian hospitality.
