Velana International Airport (VIA), the Maldives’ main international gateway, has seen a notable increase in international flight movements in 2024, signalling a positive trend in the country’s aviation sector. According to data from the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), international flight movements at VIA rose by 5% from January to October this year.
From January to October 2023, there were 13,018 international flight movements at VIA. This figure increased to 13,671 during the same period in 2024, reflecting steady growth in air traffic to the Maldives.
A detailed breakdown of the data shows that out of the 13,671 movements recorded, 12,565 were scheduled commercial flights, while the remaining 1,106 movements were attributed to charter flights and private flights. This indicates a healthy mix of regular and specialised travel, highlighting the Maldives’ growing appeal to both mass tourism and luxury travellers seeking exclusive experiences.
The increase in flight movements accentuates the ongoing recovery of the Maldives’ tourism sector, a key pillar of the nation’s economy. As of October 2024, the Ministry of Tourism reported that 43 airlines were operating flights to the Maldives, highlighting the country’s strong international connectivity. This growth in air traffic is further reflected in the total international arrivals, which reached 1,855,799 as of December 3, 2024, reinforcing the growing demand for the Maldives as a sought-after holiday destination.
The highly anticipated opening of the new international terminal at Velana International Airport is now planned for mid-2025, in line with the final stages of development. While 82% of the terminal is already complete, the decision was made to extend the timeline to ensure every detail is perfect for an exceptional passenger experience. The new terminal is expected to significantly enhance the airport’s capacity, potentially facilitating an increase in flight operations.
