New Velana Terminal to Welcome More Airlines This Month

Velana International Airport’s newly opened international terminal will begin operations for four more airlines this month, according to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). The names of the new carriers have not yet been revealed.

The terminal officially opened on 26 July in celebration of the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day. It is currently used by Maldivian, Air Arabia from the UAE, and luxury airline Beond.
Beond became the first luxury airline to operate from the terminal, launching its service last Thursday. Its first flight, B4091, was welcomed with a water salute and traditional performances for the arriving 35 passengers. Departing passengers also received special gifts at check-in.

Backed by Arabesque, a joint venture between the Simdi Group and international investors, Beond marks a new chapter in premium air travel from the Maldives.
MACL plans to move all 34 existing airlines to the new terminal by next month, in time for the peak tourism season.

Construction of the USD 457 million terminal began nine years ago. The facility is built to handle 7.5 million passengers annually and features advanced aviation technology.