Velana International Airport is expanding its passenger handling operations ahead of the Maldives’ peak winter tourism season, with Maldives Airports Company Limited announcing that check-in services for 10 international airlines will move to Terminal 2 from Sunday, 25 October 2026.
Under the revised operational arrangement, passengers travelling with Neos, Aeroflot, US-Bangla Airlines, Centrum Air, Azur Air, S7 Airlines, Shirak Avia, Kuwait Airways, GullivAir and French Bee will be required to complete their check-in formalities at Terminal 2. The arrangement will remain in place throughout the winter travel period, when the Maldives traditionally experiences some of its highest levels of international visitor arrivals.
MACL said the redistribution of check-in operations across both terminal facilities is designed to improve passenger flow and strengthen the airport’s capacity to handle the increased number of travellers expected during the busy tourism season. By expanding international check-in services beyond the main departure terminal, the airport is expected to reduce congestion, provide greater counter availability and support smoother processing during peak operating hours.
Terminal 2 has undergone extensive modernisation and reopened in February 2026 with upgraded facilities designed to improve the overall passenger experience. The terminal features 27 dedicated check-in counters, modernised baggage handling systems, expanded dining areas, dedicated prayer facilities and a children’s play area. While the building has also been supporting domestic connections, its enhanced infrastructure provides additional capacity for international passenger operations during periods of high demand.
The operational expansion reflects continuing efforts by the Government and airport authorities to strengthen the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure in line with the country’s growing tourism industry. Velana International Airport serves as the principal international gateway to the Maldives, connecting travellers from major markets across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and other regions with the country’s extensive network of island destinations and tourism facilities.
The winter season is one of the most important periods for the Maldivian tourism sector, attracting large numbers of visitors seeking the country’s tropical climate, natural beauty and internationally recognised hospitality. Improving airport efficiency during this period is expected to contribute to a smoother arrival and departure experience while supporting the wider tourism and aviation sectors.
Passengers travelling on the 10 designated airlines from 25 October onwards have been advised to proceed directly to Terminal 2 for check-in and to arrive with sufficient time to complete security screening and other departure procedures.
The expanded use of Terminal 2 further strengthens Velana International Airport’s ability to accommodate rising passenger volumes and supports the Government’s broader efforts to enhance national infrastructure, improve visitor services and reinforce the Maldives’ position as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.
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