Ifuru

Ifuru Airport is not merely a transit point, but a true aerial gateway to the tropical paradise of Raa Atoll. Located on its own picturesque island, it welcomes travellers with the dazzling turquoise of lagoons and the greenery of palm trees even before the landing gear touches the runway. There is no hustle and bustle of giant international hubs here: the atmosphere is permeated with tranquility, and the compact size of the terminal allows you to start your holiday almost immediately after landing, transferring to a speedboat to your resort.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Ifuru Airport was designed taking into account the specifics of island tourism, making it a convenient and efficient hub for travellers. Its main advantage is intuitive logistics. Since the airport occupies a separate island, the journey from the aircraft stairs to the speedboat jetty takes mere minutes. You won't have to wander through corridors for long: the exit to water transport is located in the immediate vicinity of the baggage claim area.

Another important feature is its scenic location. The runway stretches along the coastline, turning every takeoff and landing into a mini-excursion with views of the Indian Ocean. Furthermore, the airport plays a key role in the accessibility of the prestigious resorts of Raa Atoll, significantly reducing transfer times from Male compared to a strictly water-based route. The terminal is equipped with basic amenities, including an air-conditioned waiting area, which is particularly valuable in the warm climate of the Maldives.

If you are planning a journey through Ifuru Airport (IFU), located in Raa Atoll near the city of Ungoofaaru, save this contact information. It will help you navigate and resolve potential questions during your trip.

• Airport Address: Ifuru Airport (IFU), Raa Atoll, Maldives.
• Phone: +960 658 0600. This number can be used for general inquiries regarding airport operations. For information on flight status, tickets, or check-in, it is recommended to contact your airline directly.
• Official Website and Email: Currently, Ifuru Airport does not have a separate official website or public email address. All necessary information is provided by the air carriers operating flights to this airport.
• Lost Luggage: In case of luggage issues (loss or damage), you should immediately contact your airline's service counter in the arrivals hall. Staff will help you complete all necessary documents.

When planning a trip to Ifuru Airport (IFU) from the city of Ungoofaaru, it is important to consider the unique features of the Maldives. The airport is located on the separate island of Ifuru, in close proximity to the island of Ungoofaaru. Therefore, the main way to reach it is by water. The entire journey from the centre of Ungoofaaru to the terminal usually takes no more than 20-30 minutes, including a short trip by land on Ifuru island itself.

Public Transport and Speedboats. There is no traditional public transport, such as buses or trains, on the islands. Its role is fulfilled by speedboats and local ferries. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel. Speedboats run according to a schedule, which is best checked on-site as it may change. A trip on such a boat takes about 10-15 minutes. Your hotel or guesthouse in Ungoofaaru will be able to provide the most up-to-date information on schedules and costs.

Taxis and Private Transfers. The role of taxis here is performed by private speedboats. This is the most convenient and fastest, albeit more expensive, option. You can book an individual transfer at any time convenient for you. Most hotels and guesthouses offer the service of organising such a transfer for their guests. Often, this is the most reliable way to guarantee you catch your flight without hassle. The cost of such a transfer is significantly higher than a public boat, but it ensures maximum comfort and flexibility.

Car Rental and Parking. Car rental services are absent on small islands like Ungoofaaru — there is simply no need for them. Consequently, the question of parking at Ifuru Airport for travellers departing from Ungoofaaru is irrelevant. All movements are carried out either on foot on the island or by boat between islands.

Recommendations: The simplest and most reliable way to organise your journey to Ifuru Airport is to arrange a transfer with your hotel in advance. They will either include it in the accommodation cost, organise a private transfer for you, or assist with tickets for the public speedboat. This will allow you to avoid misunderstandings and make your journey as comfortable as possible.

Ifuru Airport (IFU) is a modern, yet very compact aviation hub, typical for domestic flights in the Maldives. Its structure is extremely simple and designed for the quick and comfortable handling of passengers heading to the resorts of Raa Atoll.

The airport operates with just one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, there is no need for transfers between terminals, and all navigation is intuitively clear. The terminal building is a single space, logically divided into several zones.

The terminal layout is very simple:

• Departure Zone: Upon entering the terminal, you immediately arrive at the check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers pass through the single security checkpoint, beyond which lies a small but cosy waiting hall with ample seating.
• Arrival Zone: Arriving passengers enter a separate part of the terminal where the baggage claim belt is located. Immediately after retrieving suitcases is the airport exit, where travellers are usually met by representatives of their hotels.

Completing all pre-flight procedures, including check-in and security screening, takes minimum time at Ifuru Airport. Due to the low passenger flow and small number of flights, this typically takes no more than 15-20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to go through all formalities without rushing.

It is practically impossible to get lost in the Ifuru Airport terminal. All key zones — from check-in counters to the boarding gate — are within a few steps of each other. Airport staff are always ready to help and suggest directions if you have any questions.

Ifuru Airport (IFU) is a modern air harbour with a history that began quite recently. Its official opening took place on May 29, 2015. This project became an important milestone in the development of Raa Atoll and the city of Ungoofaaru, significantly improving transport accessibility for tourists and local residents of the Maldives.

The construction of the airport was part of a government programme to develop infrastructure on remote atolls. The project was implemented by a private company and included the creation of a runway 1,200 metres long, as well as the erection of a passenger terminal and other necessary structures. Before the appearance of Ifuru Airport, Raa Atoll could only be reached by seaplane or speedboat, which took significantly more time.

Since its opening, Ifuru Airport has played a key role in the region's economy. It primarily serves domestic flights, connecting the atoll with the capital, Male. This has not only simplified logistics for tourists heading to local resorts but also boosted the development of new hotel businesses. Since the airport is relatively new, its history is not associated with major renovations; it was originally built to modern standards to service turboprop aircraft.

Interesting fact: Ifuru Airport, like many other airports in the Maldives, is located on a separate small island that was specially prepared for its construction. Today, it is an important transport hub symbolising the Maldives' aspiration to make every corner of its paradisiacal archipelago accessible to travellers from around the world.

Ifuru Airport (IFU), despite its compact size, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern terminal, the main task of which is to ensure a quick and pleasant transfer for tourists heading to the resorts of Raa Atoll. The terminal building features a cosy waiting lounge, a small café where one can have a snack, coffee, or soft drinks, as well as a shop with souvenirs and daily necessities.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or attend to work matters. Charging stations for mobile devices are also provided. Although there are no public business or VIP lounges at the airport, some resort hotels may organise meet-and-greet services and waiting in special lounge areas for their guests. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with small children, and travellers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance and a barrier-free environment — it is recommended to notify the airline of your needs in advance.

It is important to note that there are no bank branches or currency exchange points at Ifuru Airport. All financial transactions, including currency exchange, are best performed at Velana International Airport (MLE) upon arrival in the Maldives or directly at your resort. Also, there are no conference halls or hotels on the premises. The nearest accommodation options are the numerous luxury resorts, to which transfers are organised by water or air from the airport. In case of necessity, a first aid post operates within the terminal.

Ifuru Airport (IFU) is a compact domestic terminal serving primarily tourists heading to nearby resorts. Due to its small size, the choice of catering establishments here is limited and focused on the basic needs of passengers waiting for their flight.

In the main and only terminal of the airport, in the departure zone, a small café or snack bar usually operates. Here, travellers can purchase a standard selection: coffee, tea, bottled water, juices, and carbonated drinks. Food offerings typically include packaged snacks (chips, nuts), sandwiches, and fresh pastries. Sometimes the assortment includes simple dishes with local flair, for example, snacks with tuna, which is a staple of Maldivian cuisine.

Regarding special dietary requirements, it is worth considering the specifics of the location. Since the Maldives is a Muslim state, all food in the café is likely to be Halal by default. For vegetarians, simple options such as pastries or meat-free sandwiches are usually available. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes are highly unlikely to be found here. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them.

The café operates in accordance with the flight schedule — it is open for passengers during the hours of aircraft departure and arrival. Prices at the airport are usually higher than average, which is typical for tourist locations. This place is well-suited for a quick snack, but for a full breakfast or lunch, it is better to use the restaurant at your resort before departing for the airport.

By planning a journey through Ifuru Airport, you are taking a step towards the paradisiacal atolls of the Maldives. To ensure your adventure begins smoothly, use our tips to help you navigate this small but important transport hub.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Ifuru Airport mainly serves domestic flights. We recommend arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to pass check-in and security control without rushing. If your airline offers online check-in, be sure to use this opportunity to save time.

Seat Selection on the Plane. Definitely choose a window seat! Flights between the atolls of the Maldives are a breathtaking spectacle. You will be able to enjoy stunning views of coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, and islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. This is your first chance to take incredible photos even before arriving at the resort.

Hand Luggage Rules. Strict customs rules apply in the Maldives. It is categorically prohibited to import alcohol, pork and pork products, materials of an erotic nature, and items offensive to the Islamic religion into the country. These rules also apply to domestic flights, so ensure that there are no prohibited items in your luggage and hand carry.

For Passengers with Connections. Most travellers use Ifuru Airport as a transit point on the way to their resort. Your further transfer will likely be organised by speedboat or seaplane. Clarify all transfer details with your hotel or tour operator in advance and confirm whether your luggage will be forwarded automatically.

Customs Control. Despite being a domestic flight, your luggage may be subject to inspection. Customs officers pay special attention to checking for items prohibited for import. Be prepared for a possible check and do not attempt to transport anything from the prohibited list.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets and transfers to the resort in advance — this is almost always more cost-effective than organising it on the spot. In the airport itself, the choice of shops and cafés may be limited, and prices inflated. It is better to bring a light snack and a bottle of water purchased after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay. Delays, especially for seaplane flights, can occur due to weather conditions. If your flight is delayed, first contact the airline representative. Immediately inform your hotel about the delay so they can adjust your transfer time. Having travel insurance will help compensate for possible unforeseen expenses.