BeOnd Airline on Saturday became the first luxury airline to dock at Velana International Airport (VIA)’s new international passenger terminal.
The arrival of BeOnd Airlines at the new terminal was honored with a traditional water salute, symbolising a warm welcome before the aircraft flawlessly connected to one of the advanced passenger boarding bridges.
Minister at the President’s Office for Presidential Affairs Ali Arif along with Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, welcomed passengers from the BeOnd Airline’s historic first flight.
To commemorate the inaugural flight, MACL presented BeOnd with a commemorative plaque, followed by remarks from BeOnd Airlines’ General Manager, Ibrahim Akhthar, highlighting the significance of this moment.
The Maldives-based SIMDI Company Private Limited and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based investment firm Arabesque partnered to launch the world's first luxury airline for leisure travel, BeOnd in 2023.
BeOnd is the third airline to begin operating from the new terminal officially unveiled on 26 July after Air Arabia and Maldives’ national airline, Maldivian.
MACL is seeking consultation from Modalis Infrastructure Partners Inc. to ensure that the new passenger terminal meets international standards, prioritises safety and offers comprehensive services.
According to MACL, the new international passenger terminal will be brought into full operation over a period of three months in line with international best practices.
Services will be switched to the new terminal under a specific schedule as advised by the consultant where Maldivian will get first use of the new terminal which will continue for a two week period.
Under the second phase, the terminal will be opened to other airlines' narrow body flights based on the Maldivian's experience. Seven airlines have already been designated to operate narrow body flights with a carrying capacity of about 200 passengers to Maldives, MACL had said.
MACL expects the entire terminal will be fully operational by the start of this year's tourist season.
This 72,000 square meter terminal is a pivotal development for Maldivian tourism. Key features include 12 passenger boarding bridges, 47 traditional and 24 dedicated seaplane check-in counters, and an advanced baggage handling system with real-time tracking. Enhanced immigration facilities, including e-gates, along with 41 elevators, 14 escalators, and 4 travellators, ensure a seamless and efficient passenger flow. The terminal's design thoughtfully integrates local aesthetics, with wall patterns reflecting the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Designed to accommodate seven million passengers annually, the facility is expected to broaden airline partnerships and support expanded flight frequencies. Government officials project the upgraded terminal will reinforce the Maldives' tourism sector and elevate the country's standing as a regional hub for international travel.