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National airline Maldivian officially inaugurated its newly modernized, air-conditioned seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport today, featuring expanded passenger capacity, private lounges, eco-friendly recycling facilities, and plans to add two new seaplanes to its fleet next year.
News Desk
Officials and senior management of national airline Maldivian gather outside the company's newly inaugurated modern seaplane terminal - Photo: Maldivian
HULHULE: The national airline Maldivian officially inaugurated its newly modernized seaplane terminal today, featuring air-conditioned spaces and expanded passenger capacity designed to reflect local natural beauty and culture.
Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen officially opened the facility during a special ceremony. Speaking at the inauguration, Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian’s parent company Island Aviation Services, revealed that over 1.2 million passengers have traveled through the airline’s seaplane operations to date. He added that an agreement was signed last August to add two brand-new aircraft to the seaplane fleet next year.
The two-story terminal can accommodate up to 90 passengers indoors and 40 individuals in outdoor seating areas. Built with eco-friendly features, the facility includes single-use plastic recycling stations alongside a souvenir and food kiosk.
The upper floor houses two private lounges, including Maldivian’s signature “Huvandhumaa” lounge, along with a dedicated children’s play area. Maldivian currently operates 11 Twin Otter seaplanes serving four island destinations across the country.
