Beond Airlines has officially commenced operations from Terminal 1 at Velana International Airport on 16 August, becoming the first luxury airline to move into the new facility, and the third airline overall to transition to the terminal, following Maldivian and Air Arabia.

The occasion was celebrated with a special ceremony at Terminal 1, attended by Minister at the President’s Office for Presidential Affairs Ali Arif, senior board members of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, and Deputy Managing Director Mohamed Lamaan. Beond Airlines was represented by General Manager Ibrahim Ahthar and Station Manager Hussain Fayaz.

Beond’s inaugural flight to the new terminal was welcomed with a traditional water salute on arrival. The opening of the airline’s check-in counters was also marked by the presentation of special gifts to 43 departing passengers. Meanwhile, 35 arriving passengers were greeted with cultural performances and traditional Maldivian hospitality.

Established through a collaboration between the Maldives’ SIMDI Group and aviation experts from investment company Arabex, Beond Airlines is designed to cater exclusively to the luxury tourism market. The airline offers premium travel experiences tailored to high-end visitors to the Maldives.

MACL highlighted that the addition of Beond Airlines reflects Terminal 1’s capability to accommodate a diverse range of carriers, from national to low-cost and luxury segments. With four more airlines expected to relocate to the terminal later this month, the company said the facility is set to strengthen its position as a premier aviation hub in the region.