Qatar Airways has shifted its passenger services to the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA).

The airline officially opened its check-in counters at the terminal yesterday, marking the occasion by presenting gifts to 162 departing passengers. A further 222 passengers arriving on Qatar Airways’ first flight to the terminal, QR674, were welcomed with cultural performances.

Qatar Airways launched flights to the Maldives on 18 December 2001.

The new terminal now serves 37 airlines, including all major carriers operating flights to Maldives.

According to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the terminal, which opened on 26 July this year, has handled more than 500,000 passengers to date. This includes about 252,000 departing passengers and 255,000 arrivals.