Passengers on flights SU320/SU321, departing for Moscow and arriving in Malé on December 28, were welcomed with a ceremonial event. The ceremony was attended by airport management, representatives of local authorities, as well as members of the media.
Check-in for Aeroflot’s first flight departing from the new terminal to Moscow opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Passengers were offered sweet treats.
An Aeroflot aircraft arriving from Moscow, which made the first landing at the new terminal, was greeted on the apron with a water arch salute. In the arrivals area, passengers received flowers and gifts. Russian travelers were also treated to a colorful performance featuring traditional Maldivian bodu beru dances accompanied by drums.
Aeroflot has been operating regular flights between Moscow and the Maldives since 2010. The destination is in high demand among Russian tourists year-round. In the winter schedule, the airline operates up to 10 weekly flights to the Maldives. During the New Year holidays, flight frequency will increase to up to 12 flights per week.
The new terminal building at Velana International Airport has a capacity of up to 7.5 million passengers per year. Passenger facilities include 47 check-in counters, 38 passport control booths, 12 jet bridges, duty-free shops, comfortable waiting areas, and a business lounge.