โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
60
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Gan International Airport (GAN) is the primary aviation gateway to the southern atolls of the Maldives, located on Gan Island in the Addu Atoll. Originally built as a Royal Air Force base during World War II, it has since been transformed into a modern international facility that serves as the country's second-largest airport. The airport's strategic location south of the equator makes it a crucial hub for international tourists heading to luxury resorts in the southern Maldives, offering a more direct alternative to the main hub in Malรฉ (MLE).
The passenger terminal at GAN is designed for efficiency and comfort, reflecting the tropical atmosphere of the region. Facilities include modern check-in counters, a streamlined immigration and customs area, and a departure lounge equipped with essential amenities such as duty-free shopping, cafes, and an executive Business Lounge. The terminal is compact, with walking distances between gates and baggage claim typically under five minutes, and it offers complimentary Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the waiting areas. Families traveling with children can also find dedicated play areas and parent rooms designed to make the transit experience more relaxed.
What sets Gan International Airport apart is its unique ground connectivity within the Addu Atoll. Unlike many Maldivian airports that require boat or seaplane transfers for every journey, GAN is connected by a series of causeways to the neighboring islands of Feydhoo, Maradhoo, and Hithadhoo, allowing for easy taxi and private vehicle access to local guest houses and community centers. For those heading to nearby resorts, such as Canareef, a short 10-minute speedboat ride is the standard transfer method. Travelers connecting from Malรฉ should expect a 75-95 minute domestic flight, with resort representatives usually on hand at both airports to coordinate seamless luggage transfers and onward connections.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Gan International Airport (GAN) in the Addu Atoll is a notably different experience than transiting through Malรฉ, offering unique ground and sea connectivity. The airport operates from a single, efficient passenger terminal where international and domestic facilities are in close proximity. For domestic-to-domestic connections, such as arriving from Malรฉ via Maldivian or Manta Air and transferring to a local island flight, a connection time of 60 minutes is typically sufficient. International departures, such as the direct SriLankan Airlines service to Colombo, generally require a two-to-three-hour window for check-in and security.
A standout feature of GAN is its direct connection to several local islands via a 14-kilometer Link Road. Unlike most Maldivian airports where speedboats are mandatory, travelers arriving at GAN can take a taxi directly from the terminal to guesthouses and hotels on Feydhoo, Maradhoo, and Hithadhoo. For those staying at nearby resorts like Canareef, dedicated speedboat transfers are coordinated by the resort and typically depart within 30 minutes of your flight's arrival. Standard Maldivian customs rules apply: alcohol is strictly prohibited for import and will be bonded by customs until your departure.
It is also important to note that domestic baggage limits are often lower than international ones, usually 20 kilograms for checked bags and 5 kilograms for hand luggage. The terminal offers free Wi-Fi, a comfortable passenger lounge, and basic dining options. For a unique souvenir, travelers arriving from Malรฉ often receive an 'Equator Crossing Certificate' to mark their journey into the Southern Hemisphere.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Funadhoo Airport (FND) is a modern domestic aviation facility located on the island of Funadhoo in the Shaviyani Atoll, Maldives. Officially inaugurated in early 2020, the airport was developed as part of a national initiative to improve connectivity across the country's many atolls. The airfield features a high-quality 1,200-meter asphalt runway, which provides a critical link for the residents of the northern atolls and offers tourists a faster, more convenient way to reach the pristine diving and snorkeling sites of the Shaviyani region.
The passenger terminal at Funadhoo Airport is a compact, single-story building that has been designed with modern domestic travel in mind. Inside, the facility is divided into clearly defined arrival and departure zones, ensuring a smooth and efficient flow for passengers. While the terminal is small, it is equipped with essential amenities including check-in counters, a comfortable waiting area with climate control, and restrooms. The airport's layout is straightforward, allowing for quick processing times through security and baggage claim, which are all housed within the same building.
Scheduled commercial services at FND are primarily provided by Maldivian, the country's national carrier. These flights connect Funadhoo directly to Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malรฉ, typically using Dash-8 turboprop aircraft. The flight duration is approximately one hour, offering passengers stunning aerial views of the Maldivian archipelago and its vibrant coral reefs. These scheduled services are a lifeline for the local community, facilitating the transport of people, mail, and essential supplies between the atoll and the capital.
Ground transportation from Funadhoo Airport is well-integrated with the island's unique geography. Upon arrival, passengers can easily access the main settlement of Funadhoo, while onward travel to other islands in the Shaviyani Atoll is typically managed via motorized boats or speedboats. Many local resorts coordinate directly with flight arrivals to ensure seamless transfers for their guests. Given the tropical environment, travelers are advised to check flight statuses regularly, as operations can occasionally be affected by weather conditions. Despite its recent opening, Funadhoo Airport has already become a cornerstone of the region's accessibility and economic development.
๐ Connection Tips
Opening its doors in early 2020, Funadhoo Airport (FND) has significantly enhanced the accessibility of the remote Shaviyani Atoll in the northern Maldives. This modern domestic hub serves as a critical link for both locals and international tourists seeking the untouched beauty of this specific region. The primary carrier operating here is Maldivian, the national airline, typically utilizing its fleet of Dash-8 turboprop aircraft. These flights offer passengers a breathtaking aerial view of the turquoise lagoons and intricate coral reefs that define the Maldivian archipelago, making the journey to Funadhoo an experience in itself.
Upon arrival, the terminal provides modern, albeit minimalist, facilities designed to handle the flow of resort-bound travelers and island residents with efficiency. The airportโs location on the island of Funadhoo means that visitors are just a short boat ride away from some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling sites in the world. The Shaviyani Atoll is renowned for its vibrant marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks, which are often found in the pristine surrounding waters. For those staying at nearby luxury resorts or local guesthouses, the airport provides a much faster and more reliable alternative to the long-duration sea transfers from Malรฉ.
Travelers should ensure their resort transfers are carefully coordinated with the Maldivian flight schedule, as the frequency of flights can vary depending on the season. The airportโs development reflects the Maldives' commitment to decentralized tourism, allowing visitors to explore beyond the central atolls. Whether you are a dedicated diver or a traveler seeking a quiet escape from the crowds, Funadhoo Airport provides the essential infrastructure to reach one of the Indian Ocean's most secluded and beautiful corners with ease and comfort.
โ Back to Gan International Airport