Velana International Airport’s (VIA) newly developed Terminal 1 has commenced operations for Malaysia Airlines, marking another milestone in the gradual opening of the new passenger terminal.

A special ceremony was held to commemorate the airline’s first operation from Terminal 1, attended by the Managing Director of Island Aviation Services, Ibrahim Iyas, Malaysia Airlines Malé Station Head Ahmed Hanam Faiz, and officials from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) and Malaysia Airlines.

During the event, Malaysia Airlines officially opened its check-in counters and presented gifts to 170 passengers travelling on the inaugural flight. The first Malaysia Airlines flight, MH485, was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute upon arrival at Terminal 1, followed by a traditional Maldivian cultural reception for its 172 passengers.

Malaysia Airlines becomes the 10th airline to operate from Terminal 1, joining Maldivian, Air Arabia, Batik Air, Beyond, Beijing Capital Airlines, Bangkok Airways, FitZ Air, IndiGo, and Gulf Air.

MACL stated that it remains committed to ensuring high-quality services for all airlines operating from the new terminal as part of efforts to enhance the overall passenger experience at VIA.