Velana International Airport’s (VIA) new international passenger terminal welcomed its first foreign carrier on Tuesday, marking the start of phased operations for the 72,000 square metre facility. Air Arabia became the first international airline to operate from the new Terminal 1, following a ceremonial ribbon-cutting that signalled the milestone in the airport’s development.

Initially opened on Maldives’ Independence Day, 26 July, the terminal was first allocated exclusively to Maldivian’s international passengers. Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), which operates VIA, said the full transition to the new facility will take place over three months in line with international best practices.

The terminal’s key features include 12 passenger boarding bridges, 47 traditional check-in counters, 24 dedicated seaplane check-in counters, and an advanced baggage handling system with real-time tracking. Enhanced immigration facilities, including e-gates, and improved passenger flow infrastructure with 41 elevators, 14 escalators and 4 travellators are designed to support an annual capacity of seven million passengers.

With wall patterns inspired by the Maldives’ natural environment, the terminal blends modern functionality with local design elements. Officials expect the upgraded facility to attract more airline partnerships, increase flight frequencies and strengthen the Maldives’ position as a regional aviation hub, directly supporting the tourism industry.