31 Airlines begin operations from Velana International Airport’s new terminal

15 Dec 2025 | 18:49
From Discover Airline's inaugural flight to the new terminal (Photo/MACL)

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced that 31 international airlines have commenced operations from the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA).

According to MACL, as of yesterday, these airlines are now utilizing the facilities of the state-of-the-art terminal.

The latest addition to the roster is Discover Airlines, a German leisure carrier under the Lufthansa Group, which began its Maldives operations in April 2022.

Many other airlines currently serving the Maldives have also transitioned to the new terminal.

The new VIA terminal was inaugurated on 26 July 2025, coinciding with the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations.

The government has projected that the development of the terminal has cost over MVR 5 billion, with the objective of accommodating up to 7.5 million passengers annually.

The launch of the new terminal marks a significant milestone in the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure, enhancing passenger experience and supporting the country’s growing tourism sector.

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