Maafaru International Airport is preparing to handle up to 800 jet movements by the end of the peak tourist season as arrivals continue to rise across the Maldives’ northern atolls, reflecting sustained interest from high-end travellers and increased capacity at the strategically located gateway. More than 200 private jets have already landed at Maafaru since the start of the season, and the total is expected to climb further in the weeks ahead as winter travel demand strengthens and resort occupancies build across the north.
Speaking to state media, Mumthaz Ali, General Manager of Maafaru International Airport, said private jets have been arriving since 20 December, adding that daily jet movements are expected to increase from 15 to 25 starting next Sunday or Monday. This season’s higher throughput is being supported by a major airside upgrade, with the airport’s aircraft parking capacity doubling compared with previous peak seasons. Previously, Maafaru could park 13 aircraft at a time, while the expanded apron can now accommodate up to 30 jets simultaneously, enabling more efficient scheduling and reducing ground delays during busy arrival and departure waves.
The expanded parking and operational flexibility are strengthening Maafaru’s position as a preferred entry point for guests travelling to luxury resorts in Raa and Baa Atolls, allowing them to land closer to their final destination instead of routing through Velana International Airport. For the premium resort segment, this improved access supports smoother itineraries, faster onward connections, and a more seamless guest experience from arrival to resort check-in, an important factor for travellers who prioritise privacy, time efficiency, and tailored service. Resort operators in the northern atolls also benefit from improved logistics for VIP arrivals, crew handling, and coordinated transfers, particularly during the busiest weeks of the season when travel patterns are concentrated around holiday and winter break periods.
Maafaru International Airport, which opened in 2019, has undergone a series of expansions as demand has grown, with the latest apron development recently opened to operations. Managed by the state-owned airline Island Aviation, the airport was developed with USD 60 million in funding from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and is equipped to accommodate aircraft such as the A320 and Boeing 737. With private jet arrivals reaching 579 last year, the airport expects further growth this season as increased parking capacity supports higher volumes and more consistent daily operations.
As the Maldives’ second-largest international airport, Maafaru is playing a larger role in supporting peak-season private jet traffic while easing congestion pressure on Velana International Airport. The continued ramp-up at Maafaru underlines the country’s broader strategy of strengthening regional gateways to support tourism growth, improve travel distribution beyond the central region, and enhance connectivity to resort destinations across the northern atolls for global travellers seeking a premium Maldivian experience.
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