Review : FSDG – Maldives Velana Intl Airport P3D

Review by Nadeem Z

Airport Overview

The long-awaited scenery for Male (VRMM) is now available for P3D – Finally! After a couple of
years and many real-life developments related to the airport, FSDG have faithfully recreated the
scenery with the best possible details. Male is the capital of the archipelagic state of the Republic
of Maldives the Maldives’ chain of 26 atolls stretches across the equator from Ihavandhippolhu
Atoll in the north to Addu Atoll in the south. The Airport has recently gone through major changes

in the past couple of years including a fully new terminal building with Jet bridges and a brand-
new runway with a length of over 3400m. The airport is home to BeOnd, Maldivian, Trans

Maldivian Airways which server almost 40 destinations. The airport also serves major hubs in the
region such as Dubai, Doha, Singapore and Colombo with the 777 being a very frequent visitor.

Airport Features

FSDG have perfectly modelled Male airport with the most accurate and simple details which include the airport layout as of 2024. It includes the completed passenger terminal building which is expected to become operational later this year which includes world-class facilities. The airport’s unique layout ncludes the International Terminal, the Domestic Terminal and the water drome Seaplane Terminal which is mainly served by Prop Twin Otter planes.

FSDG have carefully recreated all the major buildings on both sides which include the transit hotel with immaculate detail with a great attention to Custom 3D models that bring the terminal buildings and infrastructure to life, while ground equipment and clutter add to the authenticity of the experience. Dynamic lighting enhances the atmosphere, especially during night operations, contributing to the overall immersion of the airport environment.

If you wish to replicate your visit to Male, you can pick up a Twin Otter Aircraft and fly from Valena Airport to any of the Atolls because The airport product is also well accompanied by an Atoll standalone product which indeed is a very useful one to have simply because it features both the North and South Male Atolls with exceptional realism, including high-resolution textures and accurately modeled landmarks and bungalows at the resorts including the full details of the hotels and resorts that are situated in each respective Atoll. The scenery showcases realistic water effects, lush tropical vegetation, and meticulously crafted water landing ports. The vibrant coral reefs and pristine islands are depicted with stunning visual fidelity, providing a captivating and immersive experience of this paradise to the intricate of details. This add-on is perfect for virtual pilots looking to explore the beauty and intricacies of the Maldives’ premier atolls.

Modeling and Texturing

Upon closer examination, the terminal buildings and apron exhibit impressive detailing with high quality 4K textures. The real-life taxiway signs are accurately modelled that add even more authenticity and sort of a real feel to the airport especially with the old runway markings still clearly visible on the main C taxiway. Nonetheless, the modeling is excellently detailed, capturing the essence of the remote and main terminal parking areas. Ground markings, runway textures, and surrounding terrain are all 4k quality textured, contributing to a visually satisfying experience for users while using the most frequently seems P3D features such as dynamic lighting, reflective textures and more. The photoreal coverage area is indeed in high quality which blends perfectly with the Atolls by product which come into view from any angle while approaching the airport for landing especially on runway 18.

Final Feedback

To conclude FSDG’s release of Male and the Atolls have a perfect blend to the entire environment of VRMM and the Atolls which is an extremely value addon to have in the P3D scenery library especially at the price it is being sold for, offering virtual aviators the opportunity to explore the Maldivian Atolls and scenic approach into the wonderful crystal-clear coastline and interesting approaches into the 26 atolls the stretches the entire Island area. This airport definitely is a unique one due to serving multiple aviation preferences whether its Jet Pilots or Prop Pilots. FSDG have done a immaculate job while capturing all the airport features which now makes me want to visit the actual country for vacation.

All jokes aside. I eagerly anticipate future updates and additions from FSDG, as they continue to expand their catalog and enhance the virtual aviation experience in newer areas and larger airports all over the world. If the above issues are addressed in due course, the product rating would be a full 5 stars from me to FSDG for this long-awaited release!

Review by Nadeem Z