VIA’s Terminal 1 Welcomes Chongqing Airlines Operations

Velana International Airport’s (VIA) newly inaugurated Terminal 1 has officially begun serving Chongqing Airlines, further expanding the range of international carriers operating from the Maldives’ main gateway.

A special ceremony was held today to mark the commencement of Chongqing Airlines’ operations from Terminal 1. The event was graced by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Board Director Ibrahim Mahdy, alongside Airport Station Manager of Villa Travels, Mohamed Fayyaz, and senior officials from MACL.

During the ceremony, Chongqing Airlines’ dedicated check-in counters were formally opened, and gifts were presented to the 142 passengers departing on the inaugural flight. The airline’s first aircraft to operate from the new terminal, flight OQ2393, carrying 79 passengers from Chongqing to Malé, received a traditional Maldivian welcome featuring cultural performances.

Chongqing Airlines, a subsidiary of China Southern Airlines—one of China’s largest carriers—first launched its services to the Maldives on 24 June 2024. With the move to Terminal 1, the airline becomes the 12th carrier to operate from the state-of-the-art terminal, which is designed to accommodate the growing influx of international travelers to the Maldives.

According to MACL, the integration of Chongqing Airlines into Terminal 1 operations reflects the company’s commitment to providing world-class facilities and seamless services to partner airlines and passengers. The addition also strengthens air connectivity between China and the Maldives, a key tourism market for the island nation.

MACL stated that the expansion of airline operations at Terminal 1 aligns with its broader vision of enhancing VIA’s capacity and elevating the overall travel experience in line with international standards.