VIA’s New Terminal Welcomes Batik Air and Bangkok Airways

Velana International Airport’s (VIA) new passenger terminal, Terminal 1, has officially begun serving Batik Air and Bangkok Airways, further expanding its operations since opening earlier this year.

A special ceremony was held today to mark the occasion, attended by Commissioner General of Customs Fathimath Dhiyana as the guest of honor. Senior officials, including Maldives Airports Company Limited’s (MACL) Deputy Managing Director Mujtaba Latheef, Batik Air Malé Station Manager Ali Shinan, and Bangkok Airways Deputy Director of Station Management Nititham Kakhanumporn, were also present.

During the ceremony, check-in counters for both airlines were inaugurated, and the first flights — Batik Air’s OD293-5 and Bangkok Airways’ PG711-2 — received a ceremonial water salute upon arrival at Terminal 1. Passengers were welcomed with a cultural reception showcasing Maldivian hospitality.

With the addition of Batik Air and Bangkok Airways, Terminal 1 now serves a total of seven airlines, including Maldivian, Air Arabia, Beond, Flyr, and Beijing Capital Airlines. MACL stated that the expansion demonstrates its commitment to offering world-class service to international carriers and passengers traveling to the Maldives.

The opening of Terminal 1 represents a major milestone in VIA’s modernization project, designed to accommodate growing passenger traffic and strengthen the Maldives’ position as a key hub for regional and international travel.