Air Arabia Begins Operations at Velana International Airport’s New Terminal
Air Arabia has officially started operations at the new terminal of Velana International Airport | Photo: MACL
Air Arabia has commenced operations at the newly opened terminal of Velana International Airport (VIA), becoming the second airline to utilise the facility after the national carrier.
Today, we welcomed @airarabiagroup to our Terminal 1 at Velana International Airport. The airline's arrival was celebrated with a water salute, marking a significant moment of Terminal 1. pic.twitter.com/YeJ9KabMLn
— Maldives Airports Company Ltd (@MACLmedia) August 13, 2025advertisement
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The airline marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday. Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) said passengers checking in at the terminal experienced smooth processing, reflecting its commitment to simplifying airport services for international carriers.
According to MACL, Air Arabia’s move to the new terminal is expected to improve accessibility for visitors to the Maldives and contribute to the growth of the tourism sector. The company added that expanding airline operations at the terminal is part of broader efforts to enhance passenger services and create more opportunities for travellers.
Construction of the new terminal began in 2016 during the presidency of Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. It was officially inaugurated on 26 July to coincide with the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations. Built at a cost of approximately MVR 7 billion, the facility is designed to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually.
Until now, the terminal had only been used by the Maldivian airline, with MACL previously indicating that more airlines would gradually transition to the new facility.
