Velana International Airport Handles 2.35 Million Passengers in First Quarter of 2026

Velana International Airport (VIA) recorded 2.35 million passengers during the first quarter of 2026, marking a 4% increase compared to the same period last year. The growth reflects a steady rise in both international and domestic travel, including the Maldives' vital seaplane network. According to data released by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), international travel remained the primary driver of traffic, with 1.53 million arrivals and departures. Seaplane services handled 498,411 passengers, while domestic flights accounted for 317,286 travellers. The airport experienced significant daily peaks during the quarter. Wheel-based aircraft traffic reached its zenith on January 11, with 28,360 passengers passing through the terminals. Seaplane operations saw their busiest day on February 15, recording 9,351 passengers. Overall air traffic movements also climbed, with 72,128 flights registered—a 5% increase over the previous year. This total comprises 54,594 seaplane movements, 9,978 international flights, and 7,556 domestic flights. Connectivity expanded this quarter with the entry of Greater Bay Airlines, which launched new services connecting the Maldives to China. This strategic addition aims to diversify the tourism market and increase arrivals from the East Asian region. Operational efficiency has been bolstered by the opening of Terminal One. The new facility has streamlined passenger flow by integrating international flight handling and relocating domestic operations within the terminal, reducing congestion for travellers. As the primary gateway to the archipelago, Velana International Airport continues to expand its capacity to meet the growing demands of the Maldivian tourism industry.