Passenger traffic at Velana International Airport remained strong in the opening months of the year, with more than 2.3 million travellers passing through the country’s main gateway, according to newly released statistics.
Figures published by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) show that a total of 2.35 million passengers were handled during the first quarter, representing a 4 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
The total includes international arrivals and departures, as well as domestic and seaplane passengers.
International Travel Leads Traffic
International routes continued to account for the largest share of passenger movement, with 1.53 million travellers recorded over the three-month period.
Seaplane services — a key component of the Maldives’ tourism transport network — carried 498,411 passengers, while domestic flights accounted for 317,286 passengers.
Peak Days Recorded
The airport also experienced notable spikes in daily traffic during the quarter.
The busiest day for wheel-based aircraft operations was recorded on January 11, when 28,360 passengers travelled through the airport in a single day. Seaplane operations saw their highest daily figure on February 15, with 9,351 passengers.
Aircraft Movements on the Rise
Air traffic movements reached 72,128 during the quarter, marking a 5 percent increase year-on-year.
Of these, seaplane movements accounted for the majority at 54,594, followed by 9,978 international movements and 7,556 domestic movements.
New Airline Entry
The quarter also saw the entry of China’s Greater Bay Airlines into the Maldivian market, adding to the growing list of international carriers operating to the destination.
Terminal Changes Improve Flow
Operational improvements have also been introduced at the airport following the opening of a new passenger terminal.
The newly opened facility now functions as Terminal 1, while the former international terminal has been redesignated as Terminal 2 and is currently used for domestic operations.
Officials say the changes are aimed at improving passenger flow and enhancing the overall travel experience as demand continues to grow.
