Getting around the Maldives often means taking to the skies. With over 1,000 islands spread across the Indian Ocean, domestic flights are the most efficient way to reach far-flung atolls, remote resorts and inhabited islands that boats can’t reach quickly.
At Alternative Airlines, you can search, compare and book domestic flights across the Maldives in one place. Choose from trusted island airlines, check real-time availability and pick how you want to pay, including Buy Now Pay Later options.
We work with trusted Maldivian carriers including Maldivian, Flyme, Manta Air and Trans Maldivian Airways. These airlines operate frequent flights between Malé and islands such as Dharavandhoo, Maafaru, Gan, Hanimaadhoo and many more, including seaplane routes to luxury resorts.
Whether you’re flying to a luxury resort or a local island, Alternative Airlines makes booking local flights in the Maldives simple, fast and flexible.
Flying is essential in the Maldives. With islands spread out over hundreds of kilometres, domestic airlines play a vital role in connecting Malé with resorts, local islands and regional airports across the country.
At Alternative Airlines, you can book with these trusted Maldivian airlines:
All of these airlines are available to book through Alternative Airlines, with options to pay in your local currency and choose flexible payment plans that suit your travel schedule.
The Maldives may be made up of small islands, but its airport network is well-developed. Domestic airports and seaplane terminals help connect travellers from Malé to all corners of the country. Here are some of the most important domestic airports to know:
All of these airports are accessible through flights available on Alternative Airlines. You can view routes, compare options and book your full journey in one place!
Domestic flights in the Maldives are short-haul flights that operate entirely within the country. These flights connect Malé with regional airports and island destinations, either by land-based aircraft or seaplane. You won’t go through immigration or passport control for these routes, but you’ll still need valid ID to board.
If you’re flying to a local island or a luxury resort, domestic flights in the Maldives are the quickest and most scenic way to travel between atolls.
Travelling between islands in the Maldives isn’t as simple as hopping in a car. With resorts and local communities spread across a vast chain of atolls, domestic flights, including seaplanes flights, are often the fastest and most reliable way to get from one place to another.
Here’s why flying within the Maldives makes sense:
Booking domestic flights through Alternative Airlines means you can plan your full trip in advance and pay in a way that suits your budget, including with Buy Now Pay Later options.
Search and book flights across the Maldives in just a few clicks.
With trusted island airlines, 40+ flexible ways to pay and real support when you need it, Alternative Airlines makes flying between atolls easy, secure and friction-free.
We’re super proud of our Trustpilot rating, but don’t just take it from us. See why millions of others love booking their flights through Alternative Airlines
A domestic flight in the Maldives is any journey that stays within the country’s borders. This includes wheeled aircraft flights between Malé and regional airports, as well as seaplane transfers to resorts.
If you're a foreign visitor, yes - a valid passport is required. Maldivian citizens can use a national ID. No visa or immigration process is needed for internal flights.
The main domestic airlines are Maldivian, Flyme, Manta Air and Trans Maldivian Airways. Each one serves different routes, including regional airports and resort islands.
Yes. Seaplanes in the Maldives are operated by licensed domestic carriers and are a key part of the country’s internal travel system, especially for resort transfers.
Plan to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before departure. Seaplane flights often require check-in at a separate terminal near Velana International Airport.
Absolutely! You can book domestic flights in the Maldives online with Alternative Airlines, view live availability and choose how to pay, including the option to spread the cost.
Each airline has its own baggage policy. Seaplane flights usually have stricter limits (around 20kg per person including hand luggage). Always check your ticket or contact the airline before you travel.
Wheeled aircraft may run in the evening, but seaplane flights generally only operate during daylight hours. If arriving into Malé late, you may need to stay overnight before flying onward.
