Turkish Airlines Takes Off from VIA’s New Terminal 1

Turkish Airlines has officially begun operating from the newly opened Terminal 1 at Velana International Airport (VIA), further strengthening the terminal’s growing portfolio of international carriers and marking another step in the airport’s transformation into a regional aviation hub.

A special ceremony was held today at Terminal 1 to mark the commencement of operations, attended by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed. The event was also joined by Turkish Airlines’ Station Manager in the Maldives, Elif Ozturk Minak, along with senior officials and representatives from MACL.

As part of the inauguration, Turkish Airlines’ check-in counters at Terminal 1 were officially opened, and gifts were presented to 227 passengers departing on the airline. Meanwhile, the first Turkish Airlines flight to arrive at the new terminal, flight TK734, was accorded a warm cultural welcome upon arrival, with 384 passengers received as part of the celebratory event.

Turkish Airlines has been operating flights to the Maldives since November 25, 2012, and its transition to Terminal 1 marks a new chapter in its long-standing presence in the country. With its inclusion, Terminal 1 now serves a total of 41 airlines, reflecting the steady expansion of operations at Velana International Airport.

MACL has reiterated that the objective of Terminal 1 is to deliver a premium and seamless travel experience, offering enhanced facilities and services to both airlines and passengers, while supporting the continued growth of the Maldives as a leading global tourism destination.