Velana International Airport (VIA) is rapidly evolving into a state-of-the-art aviation hub, driving the Maldives’ thriving tourism sector to new heights.

The airport’s ongoing transformation was celebrated on December 26 with the arrival of the Maldives’ two millionth tourist this year, marking a historic milestone for the island nation.

The achievement comes amidst a series of ambitious upgrades at VIA, which are reshaping the airport to meet surging international demand. Over the past year, the completion of a modern cargo terminal has streamlined operations, improving the flow of goods critical to supporting the Maldives’ tourism infrastructure. Simultaneously, the addition of a new fuel farm and an upgraded fire station has enhanced safety and operational efficiency, reinforcing the airport’s readiness for increasing traffic.

Additionally, a modern passenger terminal is set to open in 2025. The new terminal will greatly increase the airport’s capacity, allowing it to accommodate 7.5 million passengers each year.

As the infrastructure expands, so too does VIA’s connectivity with international markets. Over the past year, new airline partnerships have strengthened ties with key regions, including Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East, while tapping into emerging markets in Southeast and Central Asia. This growing network is not only boosting visitor numbers but also diversifying the Maldives’ tourism base, a crucial step in sustaining long-term growth.

The milestone—the arrival of Austrian tourist Astrid Dirnegger—was a moment of pride for VIA and the Maldives’ tourism industry. The event was celebrated in a ceremony attended by several prominent figures, including Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal, Presidential Advisor on Tourism Development Mohamed Khaleel, MMPRC Chairperson Abdulla Ghiyas Riyaz, MMPRC CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree, MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, and Maldives Immigration Controller General Mohamed Shamaan Waheed.

The airport’s transformation reflects broader ambitions for the Maldives, which continues to attract record numbers of visitors year after year. By combining cutting-edge facilities with a strategic focus on global connectivity, VIA is positioning itself not just as a gateway but as a vital enabler of the Maldives’ tourism future.

Each new development ensures that the airport is ready to support the nation’s ambitions, providing travelers with a seamless journey to one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.