The second edition of the Aviation Forum – Connect Maldives took place today at the Hulhule Island Hotel, bringing together key players from the aviation and travel industries for a full-day conference focused on addressing challenges and opportunities amid growing demand in air travel and services.

The event gathered stakeholders from across the aviation spectrum, including airport and airline operators, industry organizations, and travel professionals. Participants engaged in discussions on collaborative strategies to enhance the Maldives’ aviation infrastructure and services to meet increasing tourism demands.

A major highlight of the forum was MACL’s (Maldives Airports Company Limited) announcement of the official opening date for the new terminal at Velana International Airport – scheduled for July 26, 2025. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the industry, offering renewed optimism amid projections of over two million tourist arrivals in 2025 alone.

The forum featured four panel discussions, keynote speeches, and a dedicated workshop, addressing a wide range of topics from innovation in airport operations to improving the traveler experience and sustainability in aviation.

Connect Maldives – Aviation Forum is organized and managed by Medium Events, with support from sponsors including SITA, Inner Maldives, and Avia Maldives. The event’s print partner is Printlab Creative, with Maldives Moments managing audiovisual, sound, and lighting. The forum is officially endorsed by the Airline Operators Committee, MATATO (Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators), and MATI (Maldives Association of Tourism Industry).