Maldivian Unveils Luxury Seaplane Terminal Designed to Elevate the Maldives Resort Arrival Experience

Maldivian has officially opened its newly modernised seaplane terminal, introducing a premium passenger facility designed to strengthen the travel experience for visitors continuing their journeys to resort destinations across the Maldives.
The terminal was inaugurated by Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen at a special ceremony attended by Maldivian Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas and senior officials of the national airline. The development reflects continued efforts to improve tourism-related infrastructure and enhance the quality of services offered from the moment international visitors arrive in the country.
Maldivian said the terminal has been completely modernised to provide luxury-standard services and was developed following consultations with resorts and other industry stakeholders. The facility is intended to provide passengers with a more comfortable and comprehensive transfer experience while supporting closer integration between aviation services and the country’s internationally renowned resort sector.
The terminal has been designed around a distinctive theme inspired by the natural beauty and cultural identity of the Maldives, allowing visitors to experience elements of the destination even before reaching their resort. A specially created audio theme will also form part of the passenger experience. Unlike the general area of the previous terminal, the new facility is fully air-conditioned, further improving comfort for departing and arriving guests.
Among its key facilities is the “Huvandhumaa” lounge, together with two private lounges on the upper floor, a children’s play area and a kiosk offering Maldivian-branded souvenirs and food. The terminal can accommodate 90 passengers indoors and an additional 40 guests in its outdoor seating areas.
The facility has also been fitted with new, comfortable furniture and features a dedicated garden area, which Maldivian said is not available at terminals operated by other seaplane operators. A viewing deck overlooking the seaplanes and surrounding waterway provides passengers with an additional experience while waiting for transfers to their resorts.
Environmental considerations have been incorporated into the project, including a waste-bottle recycling system aimed at preventing plastic bottles from entering the sea. Passenger transfers are also supported by BYD battery-powered vehicles, contributing to more environmentally responsible ground operations.
Maldivian has introduced new staff training guidelines to further improve service quality at the terminal, while a dedicated staff canteen has also been established as part of the upgraded facilities.
The airline currently operates a fleet of 11 seaplanes and is working to add two more aircraft as it expands its capacity. Maldivian presently provides seaplane services to four islands, with the upgraded terminal expected to support future growth and strengthen connectivity between Velana International Airport and resort destinations.
The new facility adds to the Maldives Government’s broader focus on improving tourism and aviation infrastructure, supporting a smoother and more premium arrival experience for international travellers while strengthening the transport network serving the country’s resort industry.