A steady increase in international flight activity at Velana International Airport (VIA) reflects continued strength in the Maldives’ tourism sector, with newly released data showing a notable rise in scheduled air traffic in the first five months of 2025. The figures come as the airport prepares to launch a state-of-the-art passenger terminal that is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of air travel to the island destination.
According to the latest statistics published by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), VIA handled a total of 7,613 international flight arrivals between January and May 2025. This marks a 5.8 percent year-on-year increase compared to the 7,193 arrivals recorded during the same period in 2024. The growth is being driven largely by a robust rise in scheduled commercial flights, underscoring the Maldives’ continued appeal among global travelers and its strong connectivity with key international markets.
Scheduled operations comprised the bulk of inbound traffic, reaching 6,961 flights, an increase of 6.7 percent from 6,523 flights during the first five months of 2024. This sustained growth is attributed to consistent service from long-standing international carriers, as well as the entry of new airlines responding to increased tourist demand. The expansion of air connectivity not only enhances accessibility to the Maldives but also boosts its visibility as a preferred travel destination across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
While scheduled flights experienced positive momentum, general aviation traffic saw a slight decline. The segment, which includes chartered flights and private jets, registered 652 arrivals between January and May this year, compared to 670 arrivals during the same timeframe in 2024. Despite this modest drop, overall flight operations at VIA remain firmly on an upward trajectory.
This rise in air traffic precedes the much-anticipated opening of Velana International Airport’s new international passenger terminal, which is set to commence operations on 26 July 2025, aligning with Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations. Once operational, the new terminal will be a major enhancement to the country’s aviation infrastructure, designed to handle up to seven million passengers annually. The facility is expected to transform the passenger experience through modern amenities, improved processing capacity, and upgraded airport services.
The development of the new terminal is part of the Maldives’ broader efforts to expand its airport infrastructure and enhance its position as a major aviation hub in the South Asian region. Government officials and tourism stakeholders believe the upgraded terminal will support increased flight frequencies, attract new airline partnerships, and improve the Maldives’ connectivity with global tourism source markets.
As the main international gateway to the country, Velana International Airport plays a central role in supporting the Maldives’ tourism-driven economy. The upcoming terminal expansion, coupled with rising flight volumes, reflects the country’s strategic commitment to facilitating sustainable tourism growth and enhancing visitor experience. The Maldives continues to remain a top choice for travelers seeking luxury, seclusion, and natural beauty, and its evolving airport infrastructure is key to meeting future travel demands.
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