By Mohamed Riyaz, CEO & Founder, Lets Go Maldives
The Airport That Changed the Future of the Maldives
Today, millions of travelers arrive in the Maldives through Velana International Airport every year.
They come seeking luxury resorts, pristine beaches, world-class diving, unforgettable honeymoons, and private island experiences.
Yet few visitors realize that the modern gateway they arrive through began as a simple airstrip on a small island in the Indian Ocean.
The story of Velana International Airport is more than the story of an airport.
It is the story of how the Maldives transformed from a remote island nation into one of the world’s most successful tourism destinations.
Without this airport, the Maldives tourism industry as we know it today would not exist.
This is the remarkable journey of Velana International Airport.
Before Tourism: The Maldives in the Early Years
Prior to the development of modern aviation infrastructure, reaching the Maldives was significantly more challenging than it is today.
Travel connections were limited, international accessibility was restricted, and the concept of luxury island tourism had not yet emerged.
The Maldives was largely dependent on maritime transportation and regional trade routes.
The need for an air gateway became increasingly important as the country looked toward modernization and international connectivity.
1960: The First Runway on Hulhulé Island
The foundation of Maldives aviation began in 1960 with the opening of the first runway on Hulhulé Island.
This marked the beginning of a new era for the country and laid the groundwork for future international connectivity.
At the time, few could have imagined that this modest airstrip would eventually become one of the most important tourism gateways in the Indian Ocean.
1964: A Permanent Runway is Constructed
As aviation activity increased, the temporary runway infrastructure was replaced with a permanent asphalt runway.
This represented a major step forward in the country’s aviation development and improved operational reliability.
The investment reflected growing confidence in the future role of aviation within the Maldives.
1966: Official Opening of Hulhulé Airport
The airport was officially inaugurated as Hulhulé Airport in 1966.
This milestone formally established the Maldives’ first significant aviation gateway and strengthened the nation’s connection to the outside world.
For the first time, international connectivity became a realistic long-term opportunity.
1968: Expansion Continues
To support future growth, the runway was extended following reclamation works on the southern side of Hulhulé Island.
These early expansion efforts demonstrated the country’s commitment to developing aviation infrastructure.
1972: Tourism Arrives
The year 1972 is one of the most significant moments in Maldivian history.
The country’s first tourism initiatives began, and a dedicated passenger terminal building was constructed at the airport.
This development would ultimately transform the Maldives economy forever.
Tourism and aviation would grow together over the following decades.
1981: Malé International Airport
As international connections expanded, the airport was officially inaugurated as Malé International Airport.
The new designation reflected its growing role as the country’s principal international aviation gateway.
By this stage, tourism was becoming increasingly important to the national economy.
The Rise of Maldives Tourism
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Maldives experienced rapid tourism growth.
New resorts opened across the country, international airlines increased services, and visitor arrivals continued to rise.
The airport became the essential link connecting the Maldives to global markets.
Every new resort depended on reliable air access.
Every visitor journey began through the airport.
1993: The Seaplane Revolution
A major milestone occurred with the commencement of large-scale commercial seaplane operations.
This innovation transformed resort accessibility by allowing visitors to reach remote islands quickly and efficiently.
Today, seaplanes remain one of the most iconic elements of Maldives travel.
1994: Formation of MACL
In 1994, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) was established to manage and operate the airport.
This was a significant step toward professionalizing airport management and supporting future growth.
MACL continues to play a central role in the development of Maldives aviation infrastructure.
2011: Ibrahim Nasir International Airport
The airport was renamed Ibrahim Nasir International Airport in recognition of President Ibrahim Nasir’s contribution to national development and aviation advancement.
The new name honored a leader widely associated with the modernization of the Maldives.
2016: The Airport Development Transformation
One of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Maldives history began in 2016.
The Airport Development Project included:
- New Code F Runway
- New International Passenger Terminal
- Seaplane Terminal
- Cargo Terminal Complex
- VIP/CIP Facilities
- Fuel Farm Expansion
These projects were designed to prepare the Maldives for future tourism growth and increased global connectivity.
2017: Velana International Airport
In 2017, the airport was officially renamed Velana International Airport.
The name “Velana” honors President Ibrahim Nasir and reflects an important chapter in Maldivian history.
Today, the name is recognized by travelers worldwide.
2018: Arrival of the Airbus A380
A historic moment occurred when the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380, landed at Velana International Airport.
This achievement demonstrated the airport’s growing capabilities and international standing.
It was a proud moment for the Maldives aviation sector.
2022: A New Era of Infrastructure
The new Code F runway became operational in 2022.
The same year also saw the inauguration of the Noovilu Seaplane Terminal, recognized as the largest seaplane terminal in the world.
These developments significantly enhanced airport capacity and passenger experience.
2024: Continued Expansion
Further major milestones included:
- New fuel farm with 45 million liters capacity
- New cargo terminal capable of handling 120,000 tonnes annually
- Enhanced airport safety and rescue infrastructure
These investments strengthened the airport’s operational capabilities and future readiness.
Why Velana International Airport Matters
The airport is much more than a transportation hub.
It is the foundation upon which modern Maldives tourism was built.
Today, Velana International Airport supports:
- International tourism
- Resort development
- Aviation services
- Cargo operations
- Private aviation
- National economic growth
Its success is closely linked to the success of the Maldives itself.
Looking Toward the Future
As the Maldives continues to attract travelers from around the world, Velana International Airport will remain central to the country’s growth.
Future developments will continue enhancing:
- Passenger experience
- Airline connectivity
- Tourism infrastructure
- Aviation services
- Sustainability initiatives
The airport’s evolution is far from complete.
Final Thoughts
The history of Velana International Airport mirrors the history of modern Maldives tourism.
From a modest runway on a small island to a world-class international gateway welcoming millions of travelers annually, the airport’s journey is a story of vision, ambition, and national transformation.
Every visitor arriving in the Maldives becomes part of that ongoing story.
And for many, the adventure begins the moment they land at Velana International Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
The first runway on Hulhulé Island opened in 1960.
It was originally known as Hulhulé Airport.
The name honors President Ibrahim Nasir and reflects an important chapter in Maldivian history.
Tourism development began in 1972, coinciding with major airport improvements.
The Noovilu Seaplane Terminal in the Maldives is recognized as the world’s largest seaplane terminal.
It serves as the primary international gateway connecting the Maldives to global tourism markets.
About the Author
Mohamed Riyaz is the CEO & Founder of Lets Go Maldives. With more than 27 years of experience in Maldives tourism, aviation support, airport services, luxury travel, and destination management, he has witnessed first-hand the evolution of Velana International Airport and its role in shaping the Maldives tourism industry.