Maldives Domestic Airports
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Maldives Domestic Airports: A Complete Guide

With more than a thousand islands spread across the Indian Ocean, getting around could be a challenge if not for the Maldives domestic airports. These airports are not just transport hubs—they’re your ticket to experiencing the most beautiful and remote islands in the country.

In this guide, we’ll explore all Maldives domestic airports in detail, including their opening dates, runway sizes, atoll locations, population of each atoll, number of resorts, number of guesthouses, and flight schedules. Whether you’re traveling to a luxury resort or a budget guesthouse, these Maldives domestic airports make travel easy, fast, and scenic.

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1. Velana International Airport (Domestic Terminal) – North Malé Atoll

  • Opening Date: 1960s (domestic terminal added later)
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMM / MLE
  • Runway: 3,200 m
  • Services & Amenities: Multiple food outlets (Burger King, KFC, Coffee Club), duty-free shops, Leeli lounge, ATM, pharmacy 
  • Located Atoll: North Malé Atoll
  • Atoll Population: ~150,000
  • Resorts in Atoll: 49+
  • Guesthouses in Atoll: 150+
  • Flight Schedule: Hourly flights to all domestic airports
  • Distance from Malé: 3 km (Hulhulé Island)

Velana International Airport is the central hub for all Maldives domestic airports. Located on Hulhulé Island, this airport connects Male to every major atoll. Its domestic terminal is modern and busy, with dozens of flights each day, making it the heartbeat of air travel in the Maldives.

Read more: 14 Cultural Activities in Maldives: An Insider’s Guide 

Maldives Domestic Airports
VIA Domestic Terminal

2. Dharavandhoo Airport – Baa Atoll

  • Opening Date: October 17, 2012
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMD / DRV
  • Runway: 1,189 m
  • Services: Small terminal, resting lounge, mobile charging, storage 
  • Located Atoll: Baa Atoll
  • Atoll Population: ~13,000
  • Resorts: 12
  • Guesthouses: 20+
  • Flight Schedule: 3–5 daily flights to Male, Hanimaadhoo, Ifuru 
  • Distance from Male: ~115 km

Located near the famous Hanifaru Bay, Dharavandhoo Airport is one of the most environmentally significant Maldives domestic airports. Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and attracts eco-tourists and divers. Most flights arrive in the morning and early afternoon, aligning with resort check-in times.

Read more: 20 Most Historical Places in the Maldives

Maldives Domestic Airports, Dharavandhoo Airport
Photo: Dharavandhoo Airport

3. Ifuru Airport – Raa Atoll

  • Opening Date: May 2015
  • ICAO/IATA: VREI / IFU
  • Runway: 1,200 m
  • Services: Basic terminal, ground handling by JetMate
  • Located Atoll: Raa Atoll
  • Population: ~15,500
  • Resorts: 10
  • Guesthouses: 30+
  • Flight Schedule: 2–4 daily flights (Male, Dhaalu, Noonu)
  • Distance from Male: ~177 km

Ifuru Airport is a vital connection for the northern region. Among Maldives domestic airports, it is known for short transfer times to nearby resorts like The Standard and You & Me Maldives. Speedboats from the airport make travel quick and scenic.

Read more: 20 Most Authentic Maldivian Cuisines for Budget Travellers

Inure Airport, Maldives Domestic Airports
Ifuru Airport | Photo: The CEO Magazine

4. Thimarafushi Airport – Thaa Atoll

  • Opening Date: September 3, 2013 
  • ICAO/IATA: VRNT / TMF
  • Runway: 1,200 m
  • Services: Small terminal, repair services, restaurant, car rental
  • Located Atoll: Thaa Atoll
  • Population: ~8,000
  • Resorts: 1
  • Guesthouses: 8
  • Flight Schedule: 1–2 daily to Male
  • Distance from Male: ~224 km

Thimarafushi Airport is one of the quieter Maldives domestic airports. It’s ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences and serene beaches. Due to the low number of resorts, this airport mostly serves locals and budget-conscious travelers visiting guesthouses.

Read more: Maldives Culture: Discover the 10 Fascinating Facts

Maldives Domestic Airports
Thimarafushi Airport

5. Kooddoo Airport – Gaafu Alif Atoll

  • Opening Date: September 10, 2012
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMO / GKK
  • Runway: 1,200 m
  • Services: Food court, gift shops, lost‑and‑found, storage 
  • Located Atoll: Gaafu Alif Atoll
  • Population: ~12,000
  • Resorts: 6
  • Guesthouses: 12
  • Flight Schedule: 2–3 daily to Male, Gan, Kaadedhdhoo
  • Distance from Male: ~384 km

Located in kooddoo Island, Kooddoo airport is one of the more developed Maldives domestic airports in the south. It provides easy access to Mercure Kooddoo and Pullman Maldives, both just minutes away by buggy or boat.

Read more: 6 Historical Landmarks in Fuvahmulah, Maldives 

Maldives Domestic Airports, Kooddoo Airport
Kooddoo Airport | Photo: The Maldives Journal

6. Maafaru International Airport – Noonu Atoll

  • Opening Date: December 1, 2019 
  • ICAO/IATA: VRDA / NMF
  • Runway: 2,200 m
  • Services: VIP lounge, parking, customs/immigration 
  • Located Atoll: Noonu Atoll
  • Population: ~13,000
  • Resorts: 5
  • Guesthouses: 10+
  • Flight Schedule: 2–3 domestic flights daily
  • Distance from Male: ~300 km

Maafaru Airport is among the newest Maldives domestic airports and was built to accommodate private jets as well. It’s the closest airport to Soneva Jani and Cheval Blanc Randheli, making it ideal for high-end travelers.

Read more: Coral stone Mosques of Maldives: Fenfushi Friday Mosque

Maldives Domestic Airports, Maafaru Airport
Maafaru International Airport | Photo: Travel Trade Maldives

7. Kulhudhuffushi Airport – Haa Dhaalu Atoll

  • Opening Date: Commercial operations from August 9, 2019; opened Sept 21, 2018 
  • ICAO/IATA: VRBK / HDK
  • Runway: 1,220 m
  • Services: Duty‑free shops, restaurant, maintenance, 
  • Located Atoll: Haa Dhaalu Atoll
  • Population: ~18,000
  • Resorts: 2
  • Guesthouses: 15+
  • Flight Schedule: 1–2 daily to Male, Hanimaadhoo
  • Distance from Male: ~270 km

Kulhudhuffushi is one of the key Maldives domestic airports in the north. It supports local tourism and business travel. Though not yet crowded, it’s expected to see more flights as resorts open nearby.

Read more: Coral stone Mosques of Maldives: Meedhoo Old Friday Mosque

Maldives Domestic Airports
Kulhudhuffushi Airport | Photo: Irushad Abdul Rahman/Times of Addu

8. Fuvahmulah Airport – Gnaviyani Atoll

  • Opening Date: November 11, 2011
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMR / FVM
  • Runway: 1,200 m
  • Services: Small food court, basic amenities 
  • Located Atoll: Gnaviyani Atoll
  • Population: ~14,000
  • Resorts: 0
  • Guesthouses: 20+
  • Flight Schedule: 1–2 daily to Male, Gan
  • Distance from Male: ~500 km

Fuvahmulah is unique—it’s a single island that forms an entire atoll. This makes its airport one of the most isolated Maldives domestic airports, ideal for adventure seekers, surfers, and divers who want something off the beaten path.

Read more: Coral stone Mosques of Maldives: Ihavandhoo Friday Mosque

Maldives Domestic Airports
Fuvahmulah Airport – Gnaviyani Atoll

9. Gan International Airport – Addu Atoll

  • Opening Date: 1963 (military origins)
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMG / GAN
  • Runway: 3,400 m
  • Services: Shops, dining, executive lounge
  • Located Atoll: Addu Atoll
  • Population: ~25,000
  • Resorts: 3
  • Guesthouses: 30+
  • Flight Schedule: Multiple daily domestic flights; limited international
  • Distance from Male: ~540 km

Gan Airport is the oldest functioning airport in the Maldives. While it handles international traffic, its domestic terminal plays a key role among Maldives domestic airports by connecting the deep south with Male.

Read more: Male’ Hukuru Miskiy: Symbol of Ancient Maldivian Architecture

10. Hanimaadhoo Airport – Haa Dhaalu Atoll

  • Opening Date: 1990s; domestic upgraded 2012 
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMH / HAQ
  • Runway: 1,220 m
  • Services: Passenger terminal, baggage, retail, dining
  • Located Atoll: Haa Dhaalu Atoll
  • Population: ~18,000
  • Resorts: 2
  • Guesthouses: 20+
  • Flight Schedule: 2–3 daily domestic; some charters to India
  • Distance from Male: ~350 km

Hanimaadhoo Airport is shared with Kulhudhuffushi for northern connectivity. It’s one of the northernmost Maldives domestic airports, and expansion plans are in place to add more flights and increase capacity.

Read more: 42 Essential Maldives Travel Apps: An Insider’s Guide

Maldives Domestic Airports
Hanimaadhoo Airport | Photo: Avas MV

11. Maavarulu Airport – Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll

  • Opening Date: July 4, 2019
  • Runway Size: 1,200 meters
  • Located Atoll: Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
  • Atoll Population: Approx. 11,000
  • Resorts in Atoll: 4
  • Guesthouses in Atoll: 15+
  • Flight Schedule: 1–2 daily flights

Maavarulu is a small yet vital airport serving the southern islands. It gives easy access to Raffles Maldives Meradhoo and other exclusive resorts. Among Maldives domestic airports, it’s a hidden gem.

Read more: Map of Maldives: A Complete Guide to Atolls, Islands, and Travel Routes

Maldives Domestic Airports
Maavarulu Airport | Photo: Maldivian

12. Hoarafushi Airport – Haa Alif Atoll

  • Opening Date: November 16, 2020
  • Runway Size: 1,200 meters
  • Located Atoll: Haa Alif Atoll
  • Atoll Population: Approx. 12,000
  • Resorts in Atoll: 1
  • Guesthouses in Atoll: 10+
  • Flight Schedule: 1 flight daily

Hoarafushi Airport is constructed on reclaimed land and is one of the newest Maldives domestic airports in Maldives. It serves the country’s northernmost inhabited islands, helping to grow tourism in the region.

Read more: Maldives Weather by Month: An Insider’s Guide

Maldives Domestic Airports
Hoarafushi Airport | Photo: Raajjemv

13. Madivaru Airport – Lhaviyani Atoll

  • Opening Date: February 16, 2022
  • Runway Size: 1,200 meters
  • Located Atoll: Lhaviyani Atoll
  • Atoll Population: Approx. 13,000
  • Resorts in Atoll: 9
  • Guesthouses in Atoll: 15+
  • Flight Schedule: 2–3 flights daily

Madivaru Airport connects guests to popular resorts like Kuredu and Hurawalhi. It’s a game-changer for Lhaviyani Atoll, offering fast and smooth transfers to the most visited part of the central Maldives.

Read more: Maldives Weather in March: A complete Guide for travellers 

Maldives Domestic Airports
Madivaru Airport | Photo Credit: Avas Mv

14 Kudahuvadhoo Airport

  • Opening Date: 2017 (first solar‑lit runway) 
  • ICAO/IATA: VRMU / DDD
  • Runway: 1,200+ m
  • Services: Solar lighting, VIP lounge, cafes, skydiving pickup
  • Located Atoll: Dhaalu Atoll
  • Population: ~6,000
  • Resorts: 4
  • Guesthouses: 8
  • Flight Schedule: 2–3 daily to Male, Gan, Madivaru
  • Distance from Male: ~180 km

Dhaalu Airport is a major hub among Maldives domestic airports. Located on Kudahuvadhoo Island and covering 63 hectares, it’s the first in the country to operate with solar-powered airfield lighting. Positioned around 180 kilometres from the capital city, this airport marks a modern step forward in the Maldives’ sustainable aviation journey.

Read more: Maldives Weather in July: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Maldives Domestic Airports
Kudahuvadhoo Airport | Photo Credit: Poole Associates

15 Kadhdhoo Airport

Kadhdhoo Airport is a small yet vital domestic airport serving the southern atolls of the Maldives. Strategically positioned on Kadhdhoo Island in Laamu Atoll, this airport plays a key role in connecting locals and travelers to the remote beauty of the southern Maldives.

  • Opening Date: 10 July 1986
  • ICAO/IATA Code: VRMK / KDO
  • Runway: 1,220 meters (4,003 feet), Asphalt
    • Capable of handling domestic aircraft like the Dash-8 and ATR-72.
  • Located Atoll: Laamu Atoll
  • Distance from Malé (Velana International Airport): Approximately 259 kilometers south
  • Flight Time from Malé: Around 70 minutes
  • Atoll Population: Approximately 12,000+ residents
  • Nearby Inhabited Islands: Fonadhoo, Maabaidhoo, Maavah, Gan, and Isdhoo

Kadhdhoo Airport provides easy access to a growing tourism scene in Laamu Atoll, which blends local culture with serene island escapes.

  • Nearby Resorts:
    • Six Senses Laamu (luxury eco-resort on Olhuveli Island, 40-min boat from Kadhdhoo)
    • Rahaa Resort (mid-range resort, about 20 min from airport by speedboat)
  • Guesthouses in Laamu Atoll:
    • Numerous affordable guesthouses can be found on Gan, Maabaidhoo, Fonadhoo, and Isdhoo, including:
      • Reveries Diving Village (Gan)
      • Nazaki Residences (Gan)
      • Rahaa Island View (Maamendhoo)

Operated primarily by Maldivian (the national airline), Kadhdhoo Airport offers daily domestic flights between Malé (MLE) and KDO.

  • Flight Frequency: 1–2 times per day depending on season
  • Flight Duration: ~70 minutes
  • Aircraft: ATR 72 and Dash-8 series
  • Seasonality: High-frequency during tourist season (Nov–Apr), lower during off-peak (May–Oct)

Kadhdhoo Airport is a crucial transport hub in the southern Maldives, providing access to the pristine Laamu Atoll and its mix of budget and luxury stays. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring local islands, or escaping to an eco-resort like Six Senses Laamu, this airport is your launchpad into one of the country’s most enchanting regions.

Read more: The 10 Best Maldives Adults Only Resorts

Maldives Domestic Airports
Kadhdhoo Airport

16 Funadhoo Airport

Nestled in the heart of Shaviyani Atoll, Funadhoo Airport is a newer addition to the Maldives’ growing network of domestic airports. It serves as a vital link between the capital city Malé and the pristine, less-explored northern islands, opening the door to authentic island experiences and serene landscapes.

  • Opening Date: 2 February 2020
  • ICAO/IATA Code: VRMR / FND
  • Runway: 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), Asphalt
  • Located Atoll: Shaviyani Atoll
  • Island: Funadhoo (also the capital of Shaviyani Atoll)
  • Distance from Malé (Velana International Airport): Approximately 219 kilometers north
  • Flight Duration from Malé: Around 60 minutes
  • Atoll Population: Around 13,000+ people across 16 inhabited islands
  • Nearby Islands: Milandhoo, Narudhoo, Komandoo, Feevah, and Foakaidhoo

Tourism & Accommodation Access

While tourism in Shaviyani Atoll is still developing, Funadhoo Airport makes it easier than ever to reach its untouched beauty and emerging guesthouse scene.

  • Resorts Nearby:
    • JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa (Vagaru Island – about 45 min speedboat from Funadhoo)
    • Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi (45–60 min speedboat)
  • Guesthouses:
    • Budget-friendly guesthouses are growing in islands like Milandhoo and Funadhoo, offering intimate stays for cultural travelers, including:
      • SNR Beach Villa (Funadhoo)
      • Waves Guest House (Milandhoo)

Flight Schedule

Funadhoo Airport is served by Maldivian, the national airline, with frequent domestic flights to and from Malé.

  • Flight Frequency: Daily flights depending on season and demand
  • Airline: Maldivian (Island Aviation)
  • Aircraft: ATR 72, Dash-8 Q300
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
  • Seasonal Adjustments: More frequent during high season (Dec–April)

Read more: 10 Best Places to See Manta Rays in Maldives: An Insider’s guide

Maldives Domestic Airports
Funadhoo Airport | Photo credit: Travel Trade Maldives

17 Faresmaathoda Airport

Faresmaathoda Airport is one of the newest domestic airports in the Maldives, located on Faresmaathoda Island in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. This airport brings increased connectivity to the southernmost parts of the country, opening doors for both locals and tourists to explore some of the most remote and pristine islands in the archipelago.

  • Opening Date: 15 February 2023
  • ICAO/IATA Code: VRMT / FMS
  • Runway: 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), Asphalt
    • Suitable for ATR 72 and Dash-8 aircraft
    • Modern infrastructure designed for smooth domestic operations
  • Located Atoll: Gaafu Dhaalu (Huvadhoo) Atoll
  • Island: Faresmaathoda
  • Distance from Malé (Velana International Airport): About 504 kilometers south
  • Flight Duration from Malé: Around 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Atoll Population: Approximately 14,000+ residents
  • Nearby Inhabited Islands: Fiyoaree, Madaveli, Hoandeddhoo, Hoadedhdhoo, and Thinadhoo

Gaafu Dhaalu is one of the largest and deepest natural atolls in the world, known for its breathtaking coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is still relatively undeveloped compared to the central and northern Maldives, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers.

  • Nearby Resorts:
    • Amari Raaya Maldives (60 min speedboat)
    • The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah & Falhumaafushi (accessed via connecting domestic flight or speedboat from Kaadedhdhoo or Faresmaathoda)
    • Raffles Maldives Meradhoo (transfer via speedboat)
  • Guesthouses:
    • Local stays are available on islands like Faresmaathoda, Hoandeddhoo, and Thinadhoo, including:
      • Island Guest House (Faresmaathoda)
      • Veyli Residence Maldives (Hoandeddhoo)

 Flight Schedule

Operated by Maldivian, the national airline, Faresmaathoda Airport is connected to Malé with scheduled domestic flights.

  • Flight Frequency: Several times a week (depending on demand)
  • Airline: Maldivian
  • Aircraft Type: ATR 72, Dash-8
  • Flight Duration: ~1 hour 40 minutes
  • High Season Activity: Increases during Nov–April

read more: Maldives Weather in February: What to Expect?

Maldives Domestic Airports
Faresmaathoda Airport

18 Muli Airport

Muli Airport is a small but significant domestic airport located on Muli Island, the capital of Meemu Atoll in the central Maldives. It serves as a lifeline for the atoll’s local population and provides travelers easier access to hidden gems and authentic island life far from the typical tourist path.

  • Opening Date: 26 February 2023
  • ICAO/IATA Code: VRMU / MUL
  • Runway: 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), Asphalt
    • Built to accommodate turboprop aircraft like the Dash-8 and ATR 72
    • Equipped with a small terminal and modern airstrip infrastructure
  • Located Atoll: Meemu Atoll
  • Island: Muli (Atoll capital)
  • Distance from Malé (Velana International Airport): Around 145 kilometers south
  • Flight Duration from Malé: Approximately 45 minutes
  • Atoll Population: Roughly 5,000+ people spread across 9 inhabited islands
  • Nearby Islands: Kolhufushi, Maduvvari, Muli, Mulah, Veyvah, and Dhiggaru

Meemu Atoll is known for its historical mosques, surf breaks, untouched coral reefs, and tranquil local charm.

Tourism is still low-key in Meemu Atoll, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking peaceful, crowd-free island escapes.

  • Nearby Resorts:
    • Medhufushi Island Resort (Speedboat transfer from Muli or via Medhufushi’s own seaplane dock)
    • The atoll is home to just a handful of resorts, preserving its quiet nature
  • Guesthouses:
    • Local guesthouses are emerging in Muli, Mulah, and Kolhufushi, offering authentic cultural experiences and simple comforts:
      • Muli Inn Guest House
      • Mulah Surf Stay
      • Island Vibe Guesthouse (Kolhufushi)

Operated by Maldivian (Island Aviation Services), Muli Airport provides consistent domestic connectivity to and from Malé.

  • Flight Frequency: Typically daily or multiple flights per week
  • Flight Time: Around 45 minutes
  • Aircraft Type: Dash-8 and ATR 72
  • Seasonal Variations: Higher demand during festive periods and peak travel months (Dec–April)

Read more: Top 12 Maldives eco friendly resorts

Maldives Domestic Airports
Muli Airport | Photo Credit: Sun Mv

19 Kaadedhdhoo Airport

Kaadedhdhoo Airport is one of the oldest domestic airports in the Maldives, serving as a critical air link for Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Strategically located on Kaadedhdhoo Island, this airport acts as a transportation hub for both local residents and international travelers venturing into the scenic southern atolls of the country.

Airport Overview

  • Opening Date: 10 December 1993
  • ICAO/IATA Code: VRMT / KDM
  • Runway: 1,220 meters (4,003 feet), Asphalt
    • Capable of handling regional aircraft like ATR 72 and Dash-8 series
    • Includes a control tower, passenger terminal, and basic refueling facilities

Location & Accessibility

  • Located Atoll: Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
  • Island: Kaadedhdhoo (an uninhabited island used exclusively for the airport)
  • Nearest Inhabited Island: Thinadhoo (the capital of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll)
  • Distance from Malé (Velana International Airport): About 380 kilometers south
  • Flight Duration from Malé: Around 70–80 minutes

Atoll Overview

  • Atoll Population: Over 14,000 across 9 inhabited islands
  • Nearby Islands: Thinadhoo, Madaveli, Hoadedhdhoo, Fiyoaree, and Hoandeddhoo
  • Gaafu Dhaalu is renowned for its vibrant coral atolls, dive sites, and relatively low tourist traffic—offering a more authentic and serene experience.

Kaadedhdhoo Airport acts as a primary air gateway for travelers heading to both Gaafu Dhaalu and nearby Gaafu Alif Atoll resorts and islands.

  • Nearby Luxury Resorts (Accessible by Speedboat):
    • Amari Raaya Maldives
    • The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah
    • The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi
    • Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
      (Speedboat transfers range from 40 to 70 minutes)
  • Guesthouses (Local Experiences):
    • Found in Thinadhoo, Madaveli, and Hoadedhdhoo, such as:
      • Pearl Beach View
      • Small Island Lodge
      • Ocean Front Lodge Thinadhoo

Flight Schedule

Kaadedhdhoo Airport is served by Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives.

  • Flight Frequency: Daily connections between Malé (MLE) and Kaadedhdhoo (KDM)
  • Airline: Maldivian
  • Aircraft: ATR 72, Dash-8
  • Flight Duration: ~1 hour 10 minutes
  • Seasonal Frequency: More flights during tourist high season (Nov–Apr)

Read more: Maldives Visa: Maldives Entry Requirements 

Maldives Domestic Airports
Kaadedhdhoo Airport | Photo Credit: PSM News

Transfer time from Velana Internal Airport (VIA)

AirportAirport CodeAtollTime from VIA
Dharavandhoo AirportDRVBaa20 minutes
Villa International AirportVAMAlifu Dhaalu30 minutes
Ifuru AirportIFURaa35 minutes
Dhaalu AirportDDDDhaalu35 minutes
Maafaru International AirportNMFNoonu40 minutes
Funadhoo AirportFNDShaviyani40 minutes
Thimarafushi AirportTMFThaa40 minutes
Madivaru AirportLMVLhaviyani40 minutes
Kadhdhoo AirportKDOLaamu45 minutes
Kulhuduffushi AirportHDKHaa Dhaalu50 minutes
Hanimadhoo International AirportHAQHaa Dhaalu50 minutes
Hoarafushi AirportHRFHaa Alifu70 minutes
Koodoo AirportGKKGaafu Alifu70 minutes
Maavarulu AirportRULGaafu Dhaalu75 minutes
Kaadedhoo AirportKDMGaafu Dhaalu75 minutes
Faresmaathoda AirportFMTGaafu Dhaalu80 minutes
Fuvahmulaku AirportFVMGanviyani90 minutes
Gan International AirportGANAddu95 minutes

Maldives Domestic Airlines 

Maldivian 

Maldivian, the national carrier and best domestic airline of the Maldives, operates various daily flights connecting key atolls. This ensures convenient and timely travel for both residents and visitors. The airline services nearly all domestic airports across the Maldives, except for Villa International Airport on Maamigili Island (South Ari Atoll) and Dhaalu Airport on Kudahuvadhoo Island (Dhaalu Atoll).

Maldivian’s fleet includes air-conditioned ATR-72 and ATR-42 turboprop planes, along with Dash 8-200 and Dash 8-300 models. These aircraft are well-regarded for their sturdy build, modern safety features, and dependable performance.

Read more: 10 Maldives Ultra Luxury Resorts

Maldives Domestic Airports
Maldivian Airline | Photo Credit: Maldivian

Flyme

FlyMe, a part of the Villa Group and also known as Villa Air, operates two main routes, prioritizing comfort and efficiency. The airline offers regular flights connecting Malé with Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll and its own Villa International Airport on Maamigili Island in South Ari Atoll. FlyMe’s fleet consists of air-conditioned ATR-72 turboprop aircraft, widely recognized for their reliability and excellent performance by domestic airlines around the world.

Read more: Planning a Perfect Vacation at Maldives Resorts

Maldives Domestic Airports
Flyme | Photo Credit: Villa Air

Manta Air 

Manta Air, known for both its seaplane fleet and domestic flights, provides regular service between Malé and three important airports: Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll, Hoarafushi Airport in Haa Alifu Atoll, and Dhaalu Airport on Kudahuvadhoo Island in Dhaalu Atoll.

The airline flies air-conditioned ATR72-600 turboprop aircraft, praised for their exceptional fuel efficiency and low greenhouse gas emissions. Manta Air’s focus on eco-friendly operations, combined with dependable service, makes it a popular choice among resorts in these beautiful Maldives atolls.

With a network of operational hubs, Maldives domestic airports are transforming the way travelers explore this stunning island nation. Whether you’re flying to dive with sharks, soak in a sunset at a luxury resort, or visit a local family-run guesthouse, these airports are your first step into paradise. As connectivity improves, every atoll becomes more accessible, making your Maldivian adventure smoother than ever.

Read more: The Best Time to Visit Maldives for Honeymoon

Maldives Domestic Airports
Manta Air | Photo Credit: One Online

Most frequently asked questions and their answers about Maldives Domestic Airports.

1. How many domestic airports are there in the Maldives?

Answer:
As of 2025, there are 17 domestic airports operating across the Maldives. These airports are spread throughout the northern, central, and southern atolls, providing essential air connectivity between the capital city Malé and remote islands. Each domestic airport serves as a regional hub, making travel quicker and more convenient for both tourists and locals.

Read more: 5 Best Maldives Underwater Restaurants

2. How do I transfer from Malé (Velana International Airport) to a domestic airport?

Answer:
Most domestic flights operate directly from Velana International Airport (MLE). After landing at MLE, passengers can check in at the domestic terminal, which is a short walk or shuttle ride from the international terminal. Domestic airlines like Maldivian and FlyMe offer scheduled flights to domestic airports across the Maldives. Flight times vary from 20 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the distance.

Read more: Best Time to See Maldives Glowing Beaches

3. What is the difference between a domestic transfer and a seaplane transfer?

Answer:
Domestic transfers use larger aircraft (ATR 72 or Dash-8) and operate between land-based airports, while seaplane transfers use smaller aircraft that take off and land on water, usually for direct access to resorts with no nearby airport.
Domestic flights are more weather-resilient and cost-effective, while seaplanes offer scenic views but are usually more expensive and may have limited schedules.

Read more: Top 10 Maldives Family Friendly Resorts with Kids Clubs

4. Are domestic flights in the Maldives reliable and safe?

Answer:
Yes, domestic flights in the Maldives are generally very safe and reliable. They are operated by licensed national carriers like Maldivian (Island Aviation Services) and FlyMe (Villa Air). These airlines follow international safety standards, and delays are rare. However, weather conditions can occasionally affect flight schedules, especially during the rainy season (May–October).

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5. Do I need to book domestic flights in advance?

Answer:
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book domestic flights in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (November to April) or public holidays. Booking early ensures seat availability, better prices, and coordinated resort or guesthouse transfers. Many resorts include domestic flight arrangements in their booking packages, so it’s best to check with your accommodation provider as well.

Read more: Maldives Weather in January: What to Expect?

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