VIA’s Terminal 1 Welcomes Azerbaijan Airlines, Expanding Network to 16 Carriers

Velana International Airport’s (VIA) newly inaugurated Terminal 1 marked another milestone today as it officially began serving Azerbaijan Airlines, the national carrier of Azerbaijan. The occasion was celebrated with a special ceremony held at the terminal, symbolizing growing air connectivity between the Maldives and international destinations.

The ceremony was graced by Shimad Ibrahim, CEO and Managing Director of the State Trading Organization (STO), and attended by senior officials from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), including Ahmed Arshad, Director of Avia Maldives. The event highlighted the strengthening partnership between the Maldives and Azerbaijan in the aviation sector.

As part of the ceremony, Azerbaijan Airlines’ check-in counters were officially inaugurated, and gifts were presented to the 55 passengers departing on the airline’s first flight from Terminal 1. Arriving passengers on flight J2301 — a total of 156 — were greeted with traditional Maldivian cultural performances, adding a festive touch to the historic occasion.

Azerbaijan Airlines first began its operations to the Maldives on 9 November 2024, offering a direct link between Baku and Malé. The relocation of its operations to Terminal 1 reflects the ongoing expansion of services at VIA’s new international terminal, which aims to enhance passenger experience and streamline operations for global carriers.

With Azerbaijan Airlines now joining, Terminal 1 serves a total of 16 international airlines, further solidifying VIA’s position as a premier aviation hub in the region. MACL reaffirmed its commitment to providing “the most comprehensive and highest quality service to all airlines operating in the Maldives,” as the company continues to expand its infrastructure and operational excellence in line with the country’s growing tourism demand.

The addition of Azerbaijan Airlines marks another step forward in connecting the Maldives with new markets and strengthening the nation’s aviation landscape as part of its broader vision for economic growth and global connectivity.