The national airline Maldivian has launched seaplane operations to Noonu Velidhoo, fulfilling a key pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

A special ceremony was held in Velidhoo to mark the commencement of the service. The event was attended by Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen, Managing Director of Island Aviation Ibrahim Iyas, company officials, and members of the Velidhoo Island Council.

To facilitate the service, a seaplane platform has been established in Velidhoo, while a dedicated check-in and waiting lounge has been set up at the Velidhoo Council Office. Check-in for the inaugural flight began at 1:40 p.m., with the first seaplane departing at 2:40 p.m. on Friday.

Approximately 15 passengers, including both local residents and tourists, travelled from Velidhoo to Malé on the inaugural flight. The seaplane service will operate twice a week, with scheduled flights on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Maldivian has also introduced a special promotional fare for the route, with one-way tickets priced at MVR 999.

The launch of seaplane services to Velidhoo was announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during his visit to the island on 23 July 2025, when he pledged to establish a seaplane platform and introduce scheduled flights by January this year. The President has stated that the service will continue until the development of an airport in Noonu Vihafaru, and that operations may be extended based on public demand.