Malaysia Airlines has begun operations from the new Terminal 1 at Velana International Airport (VIA). The move marks another milestone in the airport’s ongoing expansion.
A special ceremony on October 11, 2025, celebrated the airline’s first flight from the terminal. Island Aviation Services Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas attended the event. Malaysia Airlines Station Head Ahmad Hanam Faiz and senior officials from MACL and Malaysia Airlines also took part.
The airline opened its check-in counters and presented gifts to 170 departing passengers. Flight MH485, the first to arrive, received a water salute. The 172 passengers on board were welcomed with traditional Maldivian cultural performances.
Malaysia Airlines is the tenth carrier to operate from Terminal 1. Other airlines include Maldivian, Air Arabia, Beond, Flyme, Beijing Capital Airlines, Batik Air, Bangkok Airways, IndiGo, and Gulf Air.
MACL continues to expand services to provide a world-class travel experience at the Maldives’ main international gateway.
