The Maldives’ national carrier, Maldivian has commenced operations from the newly opened terminal, marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation infrastructure.

The new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) was inaugurated during a special ceremony held on July 26, to mark the island nation’s 60thIndependence Day.

According to the airline, the first service from the new terminal at Velana International Airport was for passengers arriving on Maldivian's wide-body aircraft A330. Maldivian also revealed that the first flight serviced at the new terminal was a flight that arrived from Cochin, India.

The crew of Maldivian’s inaugural flight to land at VIA’s new terminal were elegantly dressed in traditional Maldivian attire, adding a cultural touch to the historic occasion.

According to the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), which operates the airport, services for other airlines are expected to begin by the end of September.

The new terminal officially opened last night, coinciding with the nation’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. However, the festivities faced an unexpected disruption when several drones used in the Independence Day drone show lost control and fell onto the runway, forcing its closure for several hours.

As a result, multiple flights to Velana International Airport were delayed and unable to land during this period, impacting travel plans for several passengers.