The Maldives may be famous for tiny tropical islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons, but behind this picture-perfect setting is a growing aviation network that connects the country's widely scattered atolls.

With islands stretching hundreds of kilometres across the Indian Ocean, air travel plays an essential role in Maldives tourism and everyday transportation. International airports bring travellers into the country, while domestic airports and seaplane services make it possible to reach resorts and inhabited islands far from the capital.

This updated Maldives Airports Guide 2026 explains the major international and domestic airports in the Maldives, airport codes, locations and what travellers should know when planning their journey.

Quick Guide to Maldives Airports

Main international gateway: Velana International Airport
Airport code: MLE
Location: Hulhulé Island, next to Malé and Hulhumalé
Main domestic hub: Velana International Airport
Main resort transfers: Speedboat, domestic flight and seaplane
Other important international airports: Gan, Hanimaadhoo, Maafaru and Villa International Airport Maamigili

The airport network continues to develop as new airports and infrastructure projects improve connections between northern, central and southern Maldives.

Velana International Airport (MLE)

Location: Hulhulé Island, Greater Malé region
IATA Code: MLE
ICAO Code: VRMM

Velana International Airport is the main airport in the Maldives and by far the most important arrival point for international tourists.

Located on Hulhulé Island, the airport sits beside the capital Malé and is connected by road to Hulhumalé.

Most travellers arriving from Europe, the Middle East, India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia enter the Maldives through Velana International Airport.

The airport is also the country's principal transportation hub for onward journeys to resorts and other islands.

Depending on the location of your resort, your transfer from Velana may be by:

• Speedboat

• Domestic flight

• Seaplane

• Domestic flight followed by speedboat

• Private boat or yacht

Velana International Airport entered a major new era with the opening of its new international passenger terminal in July 2025. The terminal was designed to significantly increase passenger-handling capacity and modernise the arrival and departure experience.

For most first-time visitors searching for flights to the Maldives, MLE is the airport code they will need.

Gan International Airport (GAN)

Location: Gan Island, Addu Atoll
IATA Code: GAN
ICAO Code: VRMG

Gan International Airport is located in Addu Atoll, at the southern end of the Maldives.

 

The airport has particular importance for travellers visiting resorts and islands in the country's far south. Without Gan Airport, many passengers travelling to Addu would need to fly from Malé across almost the entire length of the country.

Gan has a long aviation history and today serves domestic traffic as well as international operations.

It is an especially useful gateway for visitors staying in Addu City and nearby southern resorts.

Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ)

Location: Hanimaadhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: HAQ
ICAO Code: VRMH

Hanimaadhoo International Airport is one of the main aviation gateways to the northern Maldives.

The airport provides access to Haa Dhaalu Atoll and surrounding northern atolls and is important for both local communities and the tourism industry.

Hanimaadhoo has undergone major redevelopment intended to improve its capacity and international connectivity.

For travellers heading to the far north of the Maldives, Hanimaadhoo can substantially reduce the amount of onward sea travel required compared with beginning the entire journey from Malé.

Maafaru International Airport (NMF)

Location: Maafaru, Noonu Atoll
IATA Code: NMF
ICAO Code: VRDA

Maafaru International Airport serves Noonu Atoll in the northern Maldives.

Noonu Atoll has developed into an important luxury tourism destination, and the airport provides convenient access to several high-end resorts in the region.

Its runway and facilities also make Maafaru particularly useful for private aviation.

Travellers staying in Noonu Atoll may reach their resort from Maafaru by speedboat or another arranged resort transfer.

Villa International Airport Maamigili (VAM)

Location: Maamigili, Alif Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: VAM
ICAO Code: VRMV

Villa International Airport Maamigili is located in South Ari Atoll, one of the Maldives' most popular tourism regions.

The airport is particularly convenient for resorts and local islands around South Ari Atoll.

This region is famous for diving, snorkelling and its year-round opportunities to encounter whale sharks.

Domestic flights between the Malé region and Maamigili can therefore be an important part of resort transfers to South Ari Atoll.

Domestic Airports in the Maldives

Domestic aviation is essential in the Maldives because the country's islands are spread over such a vast area.

Instead of spending many hours travelling across open ocean by speedboat, passengers can fly from Malé to an airport near their destination and complete the final part of their journey by boat.

The Maldives Civil Aviation Authority's current aerodrome records demonstrate how much the country's airport network has expanded compared with older airport lists.

Important domestic airports include the following.

Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV)

Location: Baa Atoll
IATA Code: DRV
ICAO Code: VRMD

Dharavandhoo Airport is the main domestic gateway to Baa Atoll.

Baa Atoll is a world-famous tourism destination and home to the UNESCO-designated Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve.

The airport is particularly useful for travellers visiting resorts and guesthouses around Baa Atoll.

From Dharavandhoo, passengers normally continue to their accommodation by speedboat.

Ifuru Airport (IFU)

Location: Raa Atoll
IATA Code: IFU
ICAO Code: VREI

Ifuru Airport serves Raa Atoll and provides a convenient domestic connection for resorts and inhabited islands in the region.

Travellers can fly north from Velana International Airport and then continue to their final island by boat.

Madivaru Airport (LMV)

Location: Lhaviyani Atoll
IATA Code: LMV
ICAO Code: VRGD

Madivaru Airport is one of the newer additions to the Maldives' domestic aviation network.

Located in Lhaviyani Atoll, it provides another transportation option for travellers visiting this popular resort region.

Its development has helped improve accessibility to islands that previously depended heavily on seaplane and marine transfers.

Dhaalu Airport (DDD)

Location: Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: DDD
ICAO Code: VRMU

Dhaalu Airport serves the rapidly developing tourism region of Dhaalu Atoll.

It provides domestic flight connections for passengers travelling between the Malé area and resorts in the central-southern Maldives.

Thimarafushi Airport (TMF)

Location: Thaa Atoll
IATA Code: TMF
ICAO Code: VRNT

Thimarafushi Airport provides air access to Thaa Atoll.

The airport reduces travel times for residents and tourists travelling between Malé and this part of the Maldives.

Kadhdhoo Airport (KDO)

Location: Laamu Atoll
IATA Code: KDO

Kadhdhoo Airport has historically been one of the country's important regional airports and serves Laamu Atoll.

Domestic flights make it considerably easier to reach the atoll compared with travelling the entire distance from Malé by sea.

Kooddoo Airport (GKK)

Location: Gaafu Alifu Atoll
IATA Code: GKK
ICAO Code: VRMO

Kooddoo Airport is an important gateway to Gaafu Alifu Atoll in the southern Maldives.

Several resorts in the region use Kooddoo as part of their transfer arrangements.

Passengers typically take a domestic flight from Velana International Airport followed by a speedboat transfer to their resort.

Kaadedhdhoo Airport (KDM)

Location: Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: KDM
ICAO Code: VRMT

Kaadedhdhoo Airport serves Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

Its location makes it an important part of the transport network connecting Malé with the southern atolls.

Maavarulu Airport (RUL)

Location: Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: RUL
ICAO Code: VROM

Maavarulu Airport is another relatively recent addition to the country's expanding airport network.

It improves connectivity within Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and provides another aviation gateway to the southern Maldives.

Fuvahmulah Airport (FVM)

Location: Fuvahmulah City
IATA Code: FVM
ICAO Code: VRMR

Fuvahmulah is one of the most geographically distinctive islands in the Maldives and lies south of the country's main chain of atolls.

Fuvahmulah Airport provides an essential connection between the island city and Malé.

The island has also become internationally famous among scuba divers, particularly for its exceptional shark diving.

Kulhudhuffushi Airport (HDK)

Location: Haa Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: HDK
ICAO Code: VRBK

Kulhudhuffushi Airport provides another important air connection to the northern Maldives.

The airport serves Kulhudhuffushi City and surrounding communities while strengthening transportation options throughout the northern region.

Hoarafushi Airport (HRF)

Location: Haa Alifu Atoll
IATA Code: HRF
ICAO Code: VRAH

Hoarafushi Airport serves Haa Alifu Atoll in the far north of the Maldives.

It has significantly improved domestic connectivity for communities and tourism businesses in this remote part of the country.

Funadhoo Airport (FND)

Location: Shaviyani Atoll
IATA Code: FND
ICAO Code: VRCF

Funadhoo Airport provides air access to Shaviyani Atoll.

The airport forms part of the Maldives' strategy of improving regional connectivity and reducing dependence on lengthy boat journeys between distant atolls.

Faresmaathodaa Airport (FMT)

Location: Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
IATA Code: FMT
ICAO Code: VRQF

Faresmaathodaa Airport is one of the newer airports serving the southern Maldives.

It strengthens connectivity within Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and provides residents and visitors with another alternative to long-distance sea transportation.

Muli Airport

Location: Meemu Atoll
ICAO Code: VRKM

Muli Airport is one of the newest additions to the Maldives aviation network.

The Maldives Civil Aviation Authority records its aerodrome certification from 19 May 2026, making it an important new development for connectivity in Meemu Atoll.

As routes and commercial operations at newly developed airports can change, travellers should check current airline schedules before planning a journey specifically through Muli.

International vs Domestic Airports in the Maldives

The distinction between an international and domestic airport can sometimes confuse visitors.

An airport with international designation does not necessarily have the same volume or variety of overseas flights as Velana International Airport.

Velana International Airport (MLE) remains the country's dominant international gateway.

Other international airports can handle international operations but may have more limited scheduled overseas services, seasonal services, charter flights or private aviation.

Always check actual airline schedules rather than assuming that an international airport has a direct flight from your home country.

Domestic Flights in the Maldives

Domestic flights are one of the easiest ways to reach resorts located far from Malé.

After arriving at Velana International Airport, passengers travelling to distant atolls may transfer to a domestic flight.

Depending on the destination, the flight may take roughly 20 minutes to more than an hour.

After landing at the regional airport, travellers usually board a speedboat for the final journey to their resort.

Domestic airport transfers are particularly common for resorts in:

Baa Atoll, Raa Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Laamu Atoll, Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Fuvahmulah and Addu.

Seaplane or Domestic Flight: What's the Difference?

Both seaplanes and domestic aircraft are widely used for Maldives resort transfers, but they operate differently.

Seaplane Transfers

Seaplanes can land on water close to resorts, making them one of the most memorable ways to travel in the Maldives.

They also provide spectacular aerial views of coral reefs, lagoons and islands.

However, seaplanes generally operate during daylight hours.

Domestic Flights

Domestic aircraft operate between established airports and can generally operate during both daytime and nighttime according to airline schedules and airport operating conditions.

After landing, passengers often need an additional speedboat transfer to their resort.

For travellers arriving in Malé late in the day, a domestic flight can therefore sometimes be more practical than a seaplane.

Which Maldives Airport Should I Fly To?

For the overwhelming majority of international holidays, search for flights to:

Velana International Airport (MLE).

Your resort will then normally arrange or advise you about the transfer from MLE to the resort.

However, another international airport may be more convenient when suitable flights are available.

For example:

Northern Maldives: Hanimaadhoo or Maafaru may be useful depending on available services.

South Ari Atoll: Villa International Airport Maamigili provides convenient regional access.

Southern Maldives: Gan International Airport is particularly useful for Addu Atoll.

The best airport ultimately depends on your resort, international flight availability and transfer arrangements.

How Do I Get From Velana Airport to My Resort?

This is one of the most important things to understand when booking a Maldives holiday.

Unlike many destinations, you normally cannot simply take a taxi from the international airport to your resort.

Most resorts occupy separate islands.

Your transfer may therefore involve a:

Speedboat – commonly used for resorts relatively close to Malé.

Seaplane – popular for resorts farther away and without a nearby domestic airport.

Domestic flight + speedboat – common for distant atolls with regional airports.

Your resort or travel company will usually coordinate the transfer based on your international arrival and departure times.

Tips for Flying Within the Maldives

When arranging domestic travel in the Maldives, leave sufficient time between your international and domestic flights.

Baggage allowances on domestic aircraft and seaplanes can also differ from the allowance provided by your international airline, so check the applicable limits before travelling.

Keep essential medication, travel documents, valuables and other important items in your hand luggage.

Weather can occasionally affect domestic flights, speedboats and particularly seaplane operations.

Most importantly, confirm your resort transfer before arriving in the Maldives. Do not assume you can arrange transportation to a remote resort after landing.

Maldives Airport Codes at a Glance

Some of the most useful Maldives airport codes for travellers include:

Frequently Asked Questions About Maldives Airports

What is the main airport in the Maldives?

Velana International Airport (MLE) is the main airport and primary international gateway to the Maldives. It is located on Hulhulé Island near Malé and Hulhumalé.

What airport code should I use when booking a Maldives holiday?

For most international travellers, the airport code is MLE, which stands for Velana International Airport.

Is Malé Airport the same as Velana International Airport?

Yes. Travellers frequently refer to Velana International Airport as Malé Airport, Maldives International Airport or simply MLE.

Are there domestic airports in the Maldives?

Yes. The Maldives has an extensive and growing network of regional airports connecting the country's northern, central and southern atolls.

Do I need another flight after arriving in Malé?

It depends on your resort. Resorts close to Velana Airport are usually reached by speedboat. More distant resorts may require a seaplane or a domestic flight followed by a speedboat.

Can I take a taxi from Malé Airport to my resort?

Usually not. Most Maldives resorts are located on separate islands and must be reached by boat, seaplane or a combination of domestic flight and boat.

Which airport is best for Baa Atoll?

Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV) is the principal domestic airport serving Baa Atoll.

Which airport serves Addu Atoll?

Gan International Airport (GAN) serves Addu Atoll in the far south of the Maldives.

Which airport is closest to South Ari Atoll?

Villa International Airport Maamigili (VAM) is located in South Ari Atoll and provides convenient access to many islands and resorts in the area.

Maldives Airports Continue to Expand

The geography of the Maldives makes aviation unlike almost anywhere else in the world.

Instead of one large landmass connected by highways and railways, the country consists of hundreds of inhabited and resort islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Airports therefore act as vital regional transport hubs.

The expansion of domestic airports has made remote parts of the country considerably easier to reach, while continued investment in international airport infrastructure is increasing the Maldives' capacity to welcome visitors from around the world.

For tourists, the most important thing is to think of the international flight and resort transfer as two parts of the same journey.

In most cases, you will fly internationally to Velana International Airport (MLE) and then continue by speedboat, seaplane or domestic flight to your final island.

With the right transfer arranged in advance, even some of the most remote islands in the Maldives can be reached within hours of landing.