Velana International Airport (VIA)’s new Terminal 1 has officially begun operations with Chongqing Airlines now serving passengers from the upgraded facility.
Velana International Airport launched services for Chongqing Airlines at Terminal 1 on October 20, 2025. MACL Board Director Ibrahim Mahdy attended the special ceremony held at the airport.
Officials from MACL and Villa Travels, including Airport Station Manager Mohamed Fayyaz, joined the event. The airline’s check-in counters opened during the ceremony. Staff presented gifts to 142 outbound passengers.
MACL welcomed the first Chongqing Airlines flight, OQ2393, to approach Terminal 1 with cultural performances. The aircraft carried 79 tourists to the Maldives.
Chongqing Airlines, operating under China Southern Airlines, first launched flights to the Maldives on June 24, 2024.
The airline is the 12th to operate from Terminal 1. MACL aims to enhance service quality and expand international connectivity through the new terminal.
