Hoarafushi Airport (HRF)

Hoarafushi Airport (IATA: HRF, ICAO: VRAH) is a domestic airport located on the island of Hoarafushi in the Haa Alifu Atoll, the northernmost administrative division of the Maldives. It serves as a vital transportation link, connecting the remote northern islands with the capital city, Malé, and the country's main international gateway. The airport's primary role is to facilitate travel for local residents and support the growing tourism sector in the region, providing quicker and more reliable access than was previously available by sea.

Opened in November 2020, Hoarafushi Airport is one of the newest airfields in the Maldivian domestic network. Its construction was a significant infrastructure project aimed at boosting economic development and reducing travel times for the northern communities. Prior to its opening, residents and visitors relied on lengthy speedboat journeys to reach the nearest airport, making travel cumbersome and weather-dependent. The airport's establishment marked a key milestone in improving connectivity and accessibility for the Haa Alifu Atoll.

The airport is situated on the island of Hoarafushi itself, making it easily accessible for the local population. Travelers arriving at HRF who are staying on the island can typically reach their accommodations via a short taxi ride. For those heading to other inhabited islands or resorts within the atoll, onward travel is coordinated via speedboat transfers from the island's harbor, which are often arranged in advance by guesthouses or resorts.

As a domestic airport, its operations are focused exclusively on internal flights. The national airline, Maldivian, is the primary carrier, operating scheduled flights to and from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. The flight duration is typically just over an hour. The airport features a single, modest terminal building designed to handle the specific volume of regional traffic. Facilities are functional and include check-in counters, a small departure lounge with seating, and basic passenger amenities. The scale of the airport means services like extensive retail shops or executive lounges are not available.

For travelers, it is advisable to arrive at the airport approximately 60 to 90 minutes before a scheduled departure. Passengers connecting from an international flight at Malé should allow sufficient time for immigration, baggage claim, and transfer to the domestic terminal. Confirming onward speedboat transfers from Hoarafushi in advance is essential to ensure a seamless journey to your final destination within the atoll.