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The Maldives, an archipelago of 26 atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean, is served by a network of airports that connect its pristine islands and world-renowned resorts. From bustling international hubs to quaint domestic airstrips, these airports are the gateways to paradise for millions of visitors each year. This guide explores 10 key airports in Maldives, including 5 international and 5 domestic, providing essential information for travellers planning their tropical getaway. So, whether you’re headed to a luxury resort or a local island, understanding the Maldives’ airport system is crucial for navigating this island nation.
10 Best Airports In Maldives
Here is a list of the 10 best airports in Maldives so as to help you have a hassle-free experience while travelling to the country.
1. Velana International Airport
Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
Velana International Airport, formerly known as Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, is the main gateway to the Maldives. Located on Hulhulé Island in the North Malé Atoll, it’s the busiest and most well-equipped airport in the country. This airport serves as the primary entry point for international tourists visiting the island nation, making it one of the most famous airports in Maldives. The airport has recently undergone significant renovations and expansions to accommodate increasing tourist traffic. Besides that, there are many resorts that offer direct transfers from this airport via speedboat or seaplane, making it convenient for travellers heading to various atolls.
Distance From Male: Around 2 km
Suggested Read: Top Water Sports In Maldives For Your Next Exciting Trip
2. Gan International Airport
Photo: Dhivehiobserver / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located on Gan Island in Addu City, the Gan International Airport is on the southernmost atoll of the Maldives. It’s the country’s second international airport and serves as an important gateway for the southern atolls. Originally built as a military base by the British Royal Air Force, Gan Airport now caters to both domestic and international flights. The airport has a 2,651-metre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft. Though it’s smaller than Velana, it plays a crucial role in developing tourism in the southern Maldives. It is one of the popular airports in Maldives.
Distance From Addu City: Around 8 km
3. Villa International Airport Maamigili
Photo: Torbenbrinker / Wikimedia Commons
Villa International Airport, also known as Maamigili Airport, is located on the island of Maamigili in the South Ari Atoll. It’s operated by Villa Group, a private company, and serves both domestic and international flights. This airport is particularly important for resorts in the South Ari Atoll, providing easier access to this popular tourist area. The airport has a 1,800-metre runway and can accommodate medium-sized aircraft.
Distance From Male: Around 100 km
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4. Maafaru International Airport
Photo: Saaremees / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located on Maafaru Island in Noonu Atoll, Maafaru International Airport is one of the newest airports in the island nation. Opened in 2019, this airport was developed to boost tourism in the northern atolls. The airport boasts a 2,200-metre runway capable of accommodating narrow-body jets. It features modern facilities including a VIP lounge, making it attractive for travellers seeking high-end resorts in the area.
Distance From Male: Around 173 km
5. Hanimaadhoo International Airport
Photo: M.SaameeMilandhoo / Wikimedia Commons
Located on Hanimaadhoo Island in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Hanimaadhoo International Airport is in the northern part of the region. While primarily serving domestic flights, it also handles some international charter flights, particularly from nearby countries. The airport has a 1,220-metre runway and basic facilities including a passenger terminal and cafes. Hanimaadhoo Airport plays a crucial role in order to connect the northern atolls with the rest of the Maldives and for the region’s economic development.
Distance From Male: Around 280 km
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6. Dharavandhoo Airport
Photo: Inspirationqs / Wikimedia Commons
Dharavandhoo Airport is a domestic airport located on Dharavandhoo Island in Baa Atoll. This airport is particularly important as it serves the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Hanifaru Bay, famous for its large aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. The airport has a 1,200-metre runway and can accommodate the ATR 72 and Dash 8 aircraft commonly used for domestic flights in the Maldives. Facilities are basic but functional, with a small terminal building and waiting area. Dharavandhoo Airport significantly reduces travel time to resorts in the Baa Atoll, many of which offer direct speedboat transfers from the airport.
Distance From Male: Around 116 km
7. Kaadedhdhoo Airport
Photo: Jeffry Surianto / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kaadedhdhoo Airport is a domestic airport serving the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in the southern Maldives. Located on Kaadedhdhoo Island, this airport plays a crucial role in connecting the southern atolls with the rest of the country. The airport features a 1,220-metre runway suitable for domestic aircrafts in the region. Facilities include a small terminal building with basic amenities. Kaadedhdhoo Airport is an important transit point for tourists heading to resorts in the Gaafu Dhaalu and Gaafu Alifu Atolls, many of which are known for their pristine beaches and excellent diving spots.
Distance From Male: Around 400 km
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8. Ifuru Airport
Photo: Jeffry Surianto / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Ifuru Airport is a domestic airport located on Ifuru Island in Raa Atoll. This privately-owned airport serves the growing number of resorts in the Raa Atoll and neighbouring areas. The airport has a 1,200-metre runway capable of handling the domestic aircraft commonly used in the region. Ifuru Airport helps in boosting tourism in the Raa Atoll by providing quicker and more convenient access to the region’s resorts and guesthouses.
Distance From Male: Around 173 km
9. Kooddoo Airport
Photo: Koika / Wikimedia Commons
Kooddoo Airport is one of the best domestic airports in Maldives situated in the southern part on Kooddoo Island in Gaafu Alifu Atoll. It serves as an important gateway to the resorts and local islands in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The airport features a 1,200-metre runway suitable for domestic flights. Kooddoo Airport has been playing a significant role in developing tourism in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, providing easier access to this relatively remote part of the island, known for its unspoiled natural beauty and excellent diving opportunities.
Distance From Male: Around 390 km
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10. Fuvahmulah Airport
Photo: Just Off Ground / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Fuvahmulah Airport is a domestic airport serving the unique island of Fuvahmulah, which forms its own atoll in the southern region. This airport is crucial for connecting this isolated island with the rest of the country. The airport has a 1,100-metre runway capable of handling the domestic aircraft used in the region. Fuvahmulah Airport has been instrumental in opening up this distinctive island to tourism. Known for its unique geography, featuring freshwater lakes and a different flora and fauna, this is one of the best international airports in Maldives.
Distance From Male: Around 480 km
The Maldives’ airport network, consisting of both international and domestic airports, plays a crucial role in connecting this dispersed island nation and facilitating its thriving tourism industry. Understanding the system of airports in Maldives can help you not only plan the itinerary and resort stays but also experience a smooth and enjoyable Maldivian adventure. So, for your next excursion to Maldives, connect with TripXL now.
Cover Photo: tsunami / Wikimedia Commons
