Airport information
Malé International Airport has a range of shops and facilities to choose from.
So, where next?
Maldives airport guide
Male Velana International Airport (MLE)
Get your trip off to a flying start with Virgin Atlantic at Male Velana International Airport. From check in details to airport facilities for departures and onward travel information for arrivals, don't stress - we've got it covered.
Top tips for travellers
Which terminal?
From 25 October 2025, Virgin Atlantic will operate from Terminal 1 (T1) at Male Velana International Airport, which has two terminals: T1 and T2.
Please be prepared to show proof of your flight departure to gain entry to the terminal. Ticket confirmations and mobile boarding passes are accepted for entry to Terminal 1. However, paper boarding passes both from check-in desks and Kiosks are required for immigration, and our team will provide these for you at the check-in desks.
Be aware that Terminal 1 can become very busy, with long wait times at security checkpoints.
Counter check in and bag drop
From 25th October 2025, customers will access Terminal 1 check in counters via:
i. an enclosed walkway and which connects from the Terminal 2 entrance.
ii. taxi dropoff access at Terminal 1.
iii. walking access though the zebra crossing from the speedboat arrival area to Terminal 1.
Please check the information displays once inside the Terminal for check-in desks and bag drop.
Check in starts from three hours before departure and closes one hour before departure.
What time should I arrive at the airport?
Leave those last-minute airport dashes to the big screen. We recommend that you arrive at least three hours before your flight is due to leave.
When does my flight depart/arrive?
Unsure of your timings? It's best to be safe than sorry. Check your departure and arrival time with our handy Flight status tool.
Online check in
You can check in online and choose your seat, but you will still need to check in at the airport and receive a printed boarding card. You can not check in online and go straight to the gate. Digital boarding cards will not be accepted at security.
Do I need a visa?
Check out our visa information pages which include the latest travel restrictions for every country we fly to.
Transport to Malé City / Greater Malé Area
- Malé City / Greater Malé: Ferry, taxi and bus services are available and accessible from the airport.
- Domestic travel within the Maldives: Ferries and seaplane services are available for onward travel to other destinations within the country.
Accessible travel
We believe everyone can take on the world. So, if you have accessibility or medical requirements, or just need some additional support, we can help with a wide range of assistance to make sure you enjoy our fabulous service at every step of your journey.
Excess baggage / Upgrade payments
At the check-in desks,
- you’ll be checked in with your excess baggage or upgrade. You’ll be issued a receipt showing your details, i.e., Name, booking reference (PNR), seat No., total amount to be paid in USD.
- You’ll be directed to the Airport Authority excess baggage counter, located within the check-in area for the necessary payment.
- You’ll be issued the Electronic Miscellaneous Document (EMD) and the boarding pass from the excess baggage counter for you to proceed to the departure area/boarding gate, A11/A12.
Please note that payments at Malé (MLE) station are accepted by card only. Cash payments are not accepted.
Additional information
Seaplane Terminal Access
Seaplane Terminal is interconnected to Terminal 1 Arrivals, after exiting the hall, turn left and follow the sign board.
Customs
Upon arrival if any alcohol is found from the customer, it will be confiscated by Customs, and it can be retrieved on the day of departure.
The confiscated bottle must be retrieved before checking in and to be placed inside the check in luggage.
Airport facilities
Koveli Lounge
Our shared private lounge in the Maldives
Offering you private space, complimentary snacks and drinks and a place to relax ahead of your flight.
*Applicable for Upper Class or Flying Club gold members