Velana International Airport’s Terminal 1 now serves 38 airlines, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced, following the inaugural flight of HiSky to the Maldives. The milestone was marked with a special ceremony at the airport to commemorate HiSky’s first operation, reinforcing the continued growth of air connectivity that supports the Maldives’ tourism-driven economy and strengthens the destination’s accessibility for global travellers. The inaugural flight arrived with 222 passengers, who were welcomed on arrival with cultural performances, offering visitors an immediate sense of Maldivian hospitality and heritage as they began their holiday experience.
The passengers were greeted by the Group General Manager of Maldives Inflight Catering, Ali Shakir; the Deputy Manager of Voyages Maldives, Ignaz Mansoor; along with representatives from HiSky and MACL Exco members. Their presence reflected the coordinated efforts across aviation and tourism partners to ensure a seamless arrival journey, while highlighting the importance of service excellence at the country’s main international gateway. As Terminal 1 continues to support a growing roster of international carriers, MACL’s focus on passenger experience and operational efficiency remains central to accommodating higher volumes, delivering smooth turnaround times, and providing consistent service standards for airlines and travellers alike.
HiSky is a privately owned low-cost airline founded in 2021 by Romanian entrepreneurs and headquartered in Moldova. The carrier’s entry into the Maldivian market reflects continued interest in the destination from a wider range of source markets, and adds fresh opportunities to connect the Maldives with new traveller segments seeking value, convenience, and memorable experiences. For the tourism industry, expanded flight options help stimulate demand across seasons and support stronger performance for resorts and travel trade partners by broadening route diversity and creating additional pathways for visitors to reach the islands.
With improved connectivity through Velana International Airport, resorts across the Maldives are positioned to benefit from higher accessibility and a more diverse international mix of guests. A wider airline network enhances the overall destination proposition by making it easier for travellers to plan multi-generational holidays, romantic escapes, wellness retreats, and long-stay getaways, while supporting the premium service expectations that define the Maldivian resort experience. From curated dining and personalised butler-style service to lagoon excursions, spa and wellness programmes, and cultural experiences arranged through trusted partners, the Maldives continues to elevate its appeal for global audiences who value both relaxation and discovery.
MACL stated that it aims to provide world-class service and state-of-the-art facilities for all airlines operating to the Maldives, aligning airport operations with the country’s broader brand as a leading global travel destination. The expansion of Terminal 1’s airline portfolio is expected to further strengthen the Maldives’ international standing, enhance travel convenience, and support sustained growth across the tourism value chain, from aviation services and ground handling to resort operations and local experiences that enrich each visit.
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