list of airports in Maldives

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Maldives Airports: Your Gateway to Paradise

The Maldives, a breathtaking archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its luxurious resorts, vibrant marine life, and stunning turquoise waters. Getting to this island nation, and navigating between its atolls, relies on a network of airports, ranging from the bustling international hub to smaller domestic airstrips serving individual resorts. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in the Maldives, helping you plan your journey to paradise with ease.

#ff6900 The Importance of Airports in the Maldives

Due to the unique geography of the Maldives – a nation comprised of nearly 1,200 islands spread across 26 atolls – air travel is the most efficient and often the only way to travel significant distances. While speedboats and seaplanes are popular for shorter hops, especially to resorts, the airports are the crucial entry and exit points, and facilitate inter-atoll travel. Understanding the different airport options is key to a smooth and enjoyable Maldivian experience.

#ff6900 Velana International Airport (MLE): The Main Hub

Located on Hulhulé Island, just outside the capital Malé, Velana International Airport (MLE), formerly known as Malé International Airport, is the primary international airport in the Maldives. It’s the busiest airport, handling the vast majority of international arrivals and departures.

  • Facilities: MLE boasts modern facilities including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, baggage services, currency exchange, and comprehensive immigration and customs services. Recent expansions have significantly increased its capacity.

  • Airlines: A wide range of international airlines operate flights to and from MLE, connecting the Maldives to major hubs in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

  • Transfer Options: From MLE, you can connect to your final destination via speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight. Resorts typically arrange these transfers for their guests.

  • Website: https://www.velanaairport.com/

#ff6900 Domestic Airports in the Maldives: A Detailed List

Beyond Velana International, the Maldives has a network of domestic airports serving various atolls and resorts. These airports are vital for tourists who choose to stay at resorts further from Malé. Here’s a comprehensive list:

Airport Name IATA Code Atoll Served Island Primary Use
Velana International Airport MLE Malé Hulhulé International
Hanimaadhoo International Airport HDV Haa Alifu Hanimaadhoo Domestic & International (limited)
Maamigili Airport VAM Villa International Maamigili Domestic
Kooddoo Airport GDM Gaafu Dhaalu Kooddoo Domestic
Fuvahmulah Airport FVM Gnaviyani Fuvahmulah Domestic
Dharavandhoo Airport DRV Baa Dharavandhoo Domestic
Ifuru Airport IFU Raa Ifuru Domestic
Kulhudhuffushi Airport KDH Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi Domestic
Thimarafushi Airport TMF Thaa Thimarafushi Domestic
Addu International Airport VLS Seenu Addu City Domestic & International (limited)
Dhaalu Airport DHD Dhaalu Rinbidhoo Domestic
Lhaviyani Airport LHV Lhaviyani Hinnavaru Domestic
Baa Atoll Airport (South) BYS Baa Eydhafushi Domestic
Meemu Airport MMS Meemu Muli Domestic
Kaadedhdhoo Airport KDD Gaafu Alifu Kaadedhdhoo Domestic
Gemanafushi Airport GEM Gemanafushi Gemanafushi Domestic
Fares Maathoda Airport FMA Gaafu Dhaalu Fares Maathoda Domestic

Please note that airport operations and availability can change. It’s always best to confirm details with your resort or airline.

#ff6900 Navigating Transfers: Speedboats, Seaplanes & Domestic Flights

Once you arrive at Velana International Airport, you’ll need to transfer to your chosen island or resort. Here’s a breakdown of the common options:

  • Speedboat: The most cost-effective option for resorts relatively close to Malé. Transfers typically take between 15 minutes and 1.5 hours.

  • Seaplane: Offers a scenic and quicker transfer, especially for resorts located further away. Seaplanes operate during daylight hours only. This is often the most convenient, though also the most expensive, option.

  • Domestic Flight: Used for reaching atolls that are very distant from Malé. You’ll usually take a domestic flight to a regional airport and then a speedboat transfer to your resort.

Your resort will typically handle all transfer arrangements, including booking and coordinating the logistics.

#ff6900 Future Developments in Maldivian Airports

The Maldives is continually investing in its airport infrastructure to accommodate growing tourism and improve connectivity. Plans are underway for further expansions at Velana International Airport and upgrades to several domestic airports. These developments aim to increase capacity, enhance passenger experience, and support sustainable tourism growth.

#ff6900 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which airport do most international flights arrive at?
Velana International Airport (MLE) is the primary international airport in the Maldives.

2. Can I fly directly to a resort island?
Not usually. You’ll typically fly to Velana International Airport (MLE) and then transfer via speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight. Some resorts have their own dedicated airport access.

3. How do I arrange airport transfers?
Your resort will almost always arrange your airport transfers as part of your booking package.

4. Are there any restrictions on baggage allowance for domestic flights?
Yes, domestic flights often have stricter baggage allowances than international flights. Check with your airline or resort for specific details.

5. Is it possible to travel between atolls without going back to Malé?
Yes, you can travel between some atolls using domestic flights connecting directly to regional airports.

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