Sri Lanka’s FitsAir became the fourth airline to transition to Velana International Airport (VIA)’s new international passenger terminal.
A traditional water salute welcomed FitsAir’s inaugural arrival at the new terminal followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the historic occasion.
Arrival passengers received a warm Maldivian traditional welcome while the departing passengers enjoyed an effortless check-in experience as FitsAir operations began at the new terminal.
CEO and MD Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) Ibrahim Shiuree and CEO and MD of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed along with Director of Fits Holidays Anah Kassim, welcomed passengers arriving on FitsAir’s landmark flight to the new terminal.
FitsAir is the fourth airline to begin operating from the new terminal officially unveiled on 26 July after BeOnd, Air Arabia and Maldives’ national airline, Maldivian.
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.