Velana International Airport records 1.62 million passenger movements in Q2

19 Aug 2026 | 18:03
VIA (Photo/MACL)

Velana International Airport (VIA) handled approximately 1.62 million passengers during the second quarter of 2026, as passenger traffic continued to grow alongside tourism and domestic travel.

According to statistics released by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the airport recorded 1.04 million international passenger movements between April and June.

Domestic flights carried 242,104 passengers, while 341,782 travelers used the airport's seaplane network.

VIA recorded 48,966 aircraft movements during the three-month period.

Seaplanes accounted for the largest share with 36,295 movements, followed by 6,714 international and 5,957 domestic flight movements.

The airport also recorded its highest-ever daily passenger volume during the quarter, handling 18,924 passengers on April 17.

The seaplane network set its own daily record when 5,707 passengers traveled on April 12.

MACL said passenger traffic remained strong throughout the quarter, supported by rising tourist arrivals and increased domestic connectivity to resorts and other destinations.

The airport's expanded passenger terminal has helped accommodate the growing volume.

Covering 78,000 square meters, the facility has an annual capacity of 7.5 million passengers and features expanded operational areas and upgraded passenger facilities.

The terminal opened in July 2025, and MACL is continuing work on the remaining components while relocating airlines that have yet to move into the new facility.

The latest figures highlight the continued growth in traffic through VIA as the Maldives expands its tourism and domestic transportation networks.

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