Aerial view of Velana International Airport in the Maldives with seaplanes docked beside a turquoise lagoon at golden hour

Airport

Velana International Airport (MLE)

Velana International Airport is the main gateway to Malé, the North Malé Atoll and the Maldives' resort islands. Compare transfer options to Malé city centre, Hulhumalé and onward island destinations by bridge, ferry, speedboat, domestic flight or seaplane.

Passengers

Luggage

About Velana International Airport

Velana International Airport is the main international gateway to the Maldives, located on Hulhulé island in the North Malé Atoll. Opened in 1960, it has grown from a simple airstrip into the country's principal hub for international and domestic air travel.

The airport's new international Terminal 1 opened in July 2025, replacing the older terminal building, and handles all international flights with modern check-in, security, arrivals and duty-free facilities. Terminal 2 now serves domestic flights, while the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal supports transfers to resorts across the atolls.

The airport sits about 2–3 km from the capital, Malé, and is linked to the city by the 2.1 km Sinamalé Bridge as well as a public ferry service. From here, travellers continue to Malé, Hulhumalé and resort islands by road, ferry, domestic flight, speedboat or seaplane.

With lounges, restaurants, shops, free Wi-Fi and accessibility services, the airport is designed to support the visitors who pass through it on their way to the Maldives' islands and resort destinations.

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Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Velana International Airport has two main passenger terminals plus a dedicated seaplane terminal. Terminal 1, opened in July 2025, handles all international flights, while Terminal 2 serves domestic flights operated by Maldivian, Manta Air and Villa Air. The Noovilu Seaplane Terminal operates separately for resort transfers.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Velana International Airport

Transfers

Book private transfers from Velana International Airport to hotels in Malé and Hulhumalé, or arrange speedboat and resort connections across the Maldives.

Hourly Chauffeur

Arrange a professional chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from the airport, business meetings or sightseeing in and around Malé and Hulhumalé.

Car Rental

Rent a car from Velana International Airport for independent travel around Malé, Hulhumalé and the surrounding urban islands.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organize minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Velana International Airport, Malé, Hulhumalé, hotels and event venues.