Velana International Airport (MLE) is the main international airport of the Maldives, located on Hulhulé Island near the capital city Malé. It is the primary gateway for tourists visiting the Maldives’ world-famous island resorts and is operated by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).
âœˆï¸ Key Highlights:
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Airport Code: MLE (IATA), VRMM (ICAO)
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Location: Hulhulé Island, North Malé Atoll
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Formerly Known As: Ibrahim Nasir International Airport
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Renamed: In 2017, after Ibrahim Nasir’s title "Velana"
ðŸï¸ Features:
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New international passenger terminal (under expansion) to support growing tourism
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Separate terminals for domestic flights, international flights, and seaplane operations
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A dedicated seaplane terminal, the largest in the world, used by resorts to transfer guests to islands
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Connected to Malé city by the Sinamalé Bridge (also called China-Maldives Friendship Bridge)
🌠Connectivity:
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Serves as a hub for Maldivian Airlines and Trans Maldivian Airways
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Offers direct flights to major cities in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, including Dubai, Doha, Mumbai, Singapore, London, and more
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Handles millions of passengers annually, especially during peak tourist seasons
🌅 Interesting Facts:
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The airport is surrounded by turquoise waters, giving passengers a breathtaking aerial view during takeoff and landing
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Seaplane terminals are used for resort transfers, offering a uniquely Maldivian travel experience
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Velana International Airport is vital to the Maldivian economy, supporting both tourism and trade