The Journey
A flight to remember
Get ready to embark upon the trip of a lifetime – not only is the Maldives one of the world’s leading luxury travel destinations, but it’s also the place where the journey is unforgettable.
The Journey
Velana International Airport in Malé
Don’t be surprised if you don’t see the runway until touchdown – the airport is built on its own island and looks like a gigantic aircraft carrier from the sky. Welcome to the Maldives!
After the initial wow factor and the short walk to the airport building you will need to go through the standard airport procedures. Upon clearing the immigration formalities and claiming your luggage, you will enter the Arrivals Hall; this is where the resorts and tour operators have their counters or representatives.
If you’ve booked directly with the hotel, present yourself at the respective resort counter or to the tour operator representative if you’re on a package holiday. Consult your travel documents if unsure which tour operator your travel agency has made the reservation with. The helpful airport representatives will then point you in the direction of, or take you to, the TMA check-in counter. After checking in and dropping off your baggage you will be transferred, by an air-conditioned buses, VIP vehicles or dedicated resort vehicles, to the TMA terminal.
TMA operates seaplane flights from its own terminal next to the Velana International Airport.
At the Trans Maldivian Terminal
Your next step on the journey to paradise!
Our team will welcome you at the TMA terminal and inform you about the time of your departure and the gate you will be boarding at. While you’re waiting for your flight, you’re welcome to enjoy snacks and drinks at the Café, and browse through the TMA gift and souvenir shop with exclusive travel accessories and souvenirs to commemorate your spectacular seaplane journey. TMA has three terminal buildings at Velana International Airport. Terminal A is a comfortable, modern, three-story passenger waiting terminal with two lifts. It has satellite television, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and real-time flight departure information system. Terminal A includes dedicated resort lounges and comfortable waiting areas. Terminal B consists of dedicated resort VIP lounges and shared TMA VIP lounge. Terminal C consists of a large terminal area with direct access to the outdoor deck area and open gates. It also has a Café for passengers in Terminal B & C and three dedicated resort lounges and a gift and souvenir shop.
At the gate
Get your cameras ready!
Once the flight is ready to be boarded, passengers are asked to proceed to the gate, given a safety briefing and escorted to their TMA twin-otter seaplane. Walking down the docks surrounded by turquoise waters is another thing unique to the Maldives. It’s happening…!
On the seaplane
Buckle up and enjoy the views!
The flying time to your destination varies between 20 to 60 minutes depending on proximity. Use the time to capture photos of the coral reefs and take in the jaw-dropping scenic views. Flying the friendly skies, you’re just minutes away from arriving at your destination. Why not take your shoes off now?
Inflight Magazine
Learn more about Maldives
Island Skies Magazine is Trans Maldivian Airways’ on-board publication, entertaining readers with fascinating stories about the Maldives and latest information about Trans Maldivian Airways. Flying over 1,000,000 passengers a year to more than 80 resorts in the Maldives, the Inflight Magazine has a wide audience and is considered an informative publication providing useful insights into the world’s largest seaplane operation and the Maldives as a world-class holiday destination..
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