Trans Maldivian Airways Strengthens Fleet with Arrival of 66th Aircraft

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the world’s largest seaplane operator, proudly announces the arrival of its 66th aircraft, marking another significant milestone in the airline’s journey of sustained growth, resilience and operational excellence. As the backbone of tourism infrastructure across the atolls, this latest addition strategically bolsters TMA’s capacity to meet the evolving needs of the archipelago’s travel industry.

Since introducing seaplane operations to the Maldives in 1993, TMA has redefined how guests access and experience this island nation, delivering seamless connectivity to some of the world’s most remote and exclusive destinations. Today, TMA operates an industry-leading fleet of DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, including 13 resort-branded aircraft and two VIP-configured aircraft, connecting over 80 resorts across 16 atolls. Operating over 400 daily flights and completing millions of flight cycles annually, TMA maintains one of the highest-utilisation Twin Otter fleets globally, anchored by world-class safety and reliability.

Commenting on the arrival of the 66th aircraft, Shubham Moondhara, Head of Corporate Strategy & Business Development, stated:

“The arrival of our 66th aircraft follows a truly exceptional year for Trans Maldivian Airways. In 2025, we achieved the highest passenger volumes in our history, a testament to both the enduring appeal of the Maldives as a tourist destination and the trust our partners place in us. This expansion allows us to operate with greater agility while upholding the gold standard of service excellence that defines TMA. As we move through 2026, our focus remains on scaling responsibly and ensuring every journey across the atolls is as memorable as the destination itself.”

Looking ahead, Trans Maldivian Airways remains dedicated to its customer-centric mission. Powered by a highly skilled workforce whose expertise remains central to the airline’s success, TMA is well-positioned to support the future of Maldivian tourism and ensuring that Maldives remains the world’s premier island destination.

TMA Soars Again at 32nd Annual World Travel Awards

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the world’s largest seaplane operator, has once again reaffirmed its position as a global leader in aviation with new recognitions at the World Travel Awards 2025. This year, TMA was honored as the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025 and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025, reflecting its continued contribution to air connectivity across the Maldives. The 32nd Annual World Travel Awards ceremony was held at Exhibition World Bahrain and attended by more than 300 leaders from the global tourism industry.

Since its establishment in 1993, TMA has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s aviation & tourism landscape. Operating the world’s largest seaplane fleet with 65 DHC-6 Twin Otters and serving over 80 resort destinations, TMA provides essential connectivity across the archipelago with a focus on safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. With more than 400 flights conducted daily, the airline continues to play a central role in enabling access to resort islands spread across the nation.

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. A.U.M. Fawzy, CEO of Trans Maldivian Airways, stated:

“This prestigious recognition from the World Travel Awards, year after year, reflects the trust placed in our team by our partners and guests, and the responsibility we carry as the primary air service provider connecting resort destinations across the Maldives. At TMA, our focus remains on continuous improvement and building on decades of service excellence. As the tourism industry in the Maldives continues to evolve and grow, we will continue strengthening our operations and supporting the long-term development of the Maldives as a world-leading destination.”

Trans Maldivian Airways continues to advance its operational capabilities through ongoing investments in fleet upgrades, infrastructure, training, and technology-driven enhancements to meet growing demand while maintaining its hallmark of reliable and consistent service.

As the Maldives prepares for continued growth in visitor arrivals, TMA remains committed to collaborating with industry partners, supporting national tourism development goals, and ensuring a seamless and dependable travel experience for guests visiting the Maldives’ island destinations.

TMA Honored as Leading Tourist Transport Provider (Air) at the 9th South Asian Travel Awards

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) has once again been recognized as the Leading Tourist Transport Provider (Air) at the 9th edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025, held at Cinnamon Grand, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The South Asian Travel Awards, one of the most prestigious platforms in the region, celebrates excellence across the hospitality and tourism industry in Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. This year’s edition brought together leading travel and tourism brands from across South Asia to honor outstanding achievements and contributions.

Winning this award for yet another year is a testament to TMA’s continued commitment to delivering safe, seamless, and memorable transfer experiences for travelers, while strengthening its role as a vital link in the Maldives’ tourism industry.

As the world’s largest seaplane operator, Trans Maldivian Airways remains dedicated to enhancing its services and setting new benchmarks in tourist air transport, in close partnership with resorts and industry stakeholders.

TMA extends its heartfelt appreciation to its partners and team members whose unwavering support and commitment continue to make achievements like this possible.

Flying Forward: The Growing Presence of Women at TMA

, /by

On International Women’s Day 2025, Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) proudly joins the global movement to “Accelerate Action” towards gender equality.  At Trans Maldivian Airways, we take great pride in fostering an inclusive workplace where talent and passion drive success. As the world’s largest seaplane operator, we recognize the importance of diversity and are committed to creating opportunities for women in aviation- a traditionally male-dominated industry. 

Over the past few years, we have witnessed a steady increase in female representation across various roles at TMA. As of 2025, our female workforce has grown by an impressive  50% compared to 2022. This growth is a testament to TMA’s commitment to breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of women in aviation. Whether in engineering, flight operations, or leadership roles, we believe that diversity strengthens our team and enhances our ability to deliver exceptional service. 

As we continue to expand our operations, we remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture that supports and empowers women in aviation. TMA looks forward to welcoming even more talented women into our workforce and contributing to a more diverse and equitable future in the aviation industry.


Trans Maldivian Airways Inspires Future Aviators at Ghiyasuddin International School’s Career Fair

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) proudly participated in the Ghiyasuddin International School (GIS) Career Fair, held on 20th February 2025, joining 16 other exhibitors in providing students with valuable insights into various career opportunities. The event served as a platform for students to explore different educational pathways and gain firsthand knowledge about the skills required to succeed in their chosen fields.

As part of TMA’s commitment to fostering future talent in aviation, Captain Ibrahim Nafhath Shameem represented the airline in the panel discussion The Sky’s the Limit – Aviation Opportunities. He shared his personal journey in the industry, offering students a deeper understanding of the diverse career prospects in aviation. The session also featured an engaging Q&A, where students had the opportunity to interact directly with professionals and gain real-world insights.

TMA remains dedicated to inspiring the next generation by sharing expertise and encouraging students to pursue rewarding careers in aviation.

Paradise is Calling! TMA and Le Méridien Maldives Invite You to Experience the Maldives Magic

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) is delighted to partner with the stunning Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa to bring you the chance to win the dream holiday of a lifetime. This exclusive giveaway offers a 3-night all-inclusive stay for two at the luxurious Le Méridien Maldives, where every moment feels like stepping into paradise.

The prize includes:

✨ A blissful 3-night stay for two, with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters at your doorstep
✨ All-inclusive dining and beverages for a truly carefree experience
✨ Scenic roundtrip seaplane transfers with Trans Maldivian Airways, the world’s largest seaplane operator

How to Enter:

  1. Follow @lemeridienmaldives and @transmaldivian on Instagram
  2. Like the giveaway post ❤️
  3. Tag your travel companion (each tag counts as one entry)
  4. Share the post to your Instagram story and tag both accounts for a bonus chance to win

The giveaway closes on 31st December 2024, and the winner will be announced in early January 2025. The prize is valid until December 2025.

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, nestled in the serene Lhaviyani Atoll, is a haven of tranquility and elegance, offering guests unparalleled experiences in the heart of the Indian Ocean. With its iconic overwater villas, pristine beaches, and indulgent dining options, it’s the ultimate destination for couples and adventurers alike.

Trans Maldivian Airways, with its fleet of 65 DHC-6 Twin Otters, continues to redefine scenic travel in the Maldives, connecting travelers to over 80 exquisite resorts across 14 atolls. With over a million passenger transfers annually, TMA is synonymous with seamless journeys and unforgettable experiences in this tropical paradise.

Don’t miss your chance to wake up in paradise. Enter now and let TMA and Le Méridien Maldives make your dream holiday a reality!

Terms and conditions apply. International flights are not included.

TMA Recognized as the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2024

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the world’s largest seaplane operator, continues to make waves as a global leader in aviation, securing two prestigious titles at the 31st Annual World Travel Awards 2024. Held in Portugal on 24th November, this year’s awards ceremony saw TMA recognized as the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2024 and Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2024, marking an impressive 10th consecutive win in the regional category.

Since its inception in 1993, Trans Maldivian Airways has redefined air travel in the Maldives, offering seamless connectivity and bespoke transfer solutions. Currently operating a fleet of 65 DHC-6 Twin Otters, including 13 resort-branded aircraft and 2 VIP-configured planes, TMA connects over 80 world-class resorts across 16 atolls with more than 400 daily flights. This operational excellence has played a pivotal role in supporting the Maldives’ reputation as the World’s Leading Destination, cementing TMA as an integral partner in the nation’s thriving tourism industry.

Reflecting on the achievement, Mr. A.U.M Fawzy, Chief Executive Officer at Trans Maldivian Airways stated: “We are deeply honored to have received the prestigious awards from World Travel Awards, marking a decade of excellence for TMA. It is incredibly gratifying to see our consistent services and commitment to excellence recognized on this global platform consecutively for the past ten years. Here at TMA, we constantly strive to innovate and elevate the standards of seaplane operations, ensuring that every flight is a memorable experience that exceeds expectations. Together with our partners, we remain committed to shaping the future of seamless connectivity and luxury travel in this island paradise.”

In addition to the wins at World Travel Awards, TMA achieved other notable achievements in 2024, including being named the Leading Tourist Transport Provider (Air) at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) and earning the title of Best Luxury Seaplane Lounge for Infinity by Trans Maldivian Airways at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards.

Another defining moment of 2024 was the recognition of TMA’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility as a DHC-Endorsed Service Center. As the first airline in South Asia to achieve this honor, TMA continues to set benchmarks for operational excellence in aviation.

As the Maldives anticipates record-breaking tourism growth, TMA continues to invest in expanding its fleet and services. Recently introducing two new resort-branded aircraft, TMA is well-positioned to meet the dynamic demands of the industry while maintaining its focus on personalized guest experiences.

As TMA celebrates this milestone year, the airline extends its gratitude to its resort partners, valued guests, and dedicated team. TMA remains steadfast in its mission to provide world-class service and seamless connectivity, ensuring every traveler experiences the magic of the Maldives from takeoff to touchdown.

 

INFINITY BY TRANS MALDIVIAN AIRWAYS AWARDED BEST SEAPLANE LOUNGE AT SEVEN STARS LUXURY HOSPITALITY AWARDS 2024

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) is proud to announce that Infinity by Trans Maldivian Airways, has been honored with the prestigious title of Best Luxury Seaplane Lounge at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards 2024.

The 2024 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards took place at the prestigious Hotel Management University and Culinary Institute, Campus Principe di Napoli, and celebrated the pinnacle of excellence in the luxury hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and creators, united in their shared passion for redefining the luxury hospitality experience.

A New Standard of Luxury with Infinity

Infinity is TMA’s second VIP Lounge perched on the eastern side of the second floor of Noovilu Seaplane Terminal. Stepping into Infinity Lounge, guests are transported to a realm where the concept of time transcends, surrounded by an ambiance of unparalleled luxury and comfort.

Infinity is a vision of warmth, luxury, and an irresistible invitation to indulge. A symphony of design unfolds within its walls, where the intricate craftsmanship of deco and the opulence of plush furnishings create an environment that is not only inviting but also profoundly relaxing. Guests can choose from a variety of seating options tailored to individual preferences, from intimate corners for couples to spacious arrangements for families. The floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the lounge in natural light, offering breathtaking views that perfectly complement the cozy embrace of the space.

Shubham Moondhara, Head of Corporate Strategy & Business Development at Trans Maldivian Airways, remarked, “Receiving this prestigious recognition for Infinity is a proud moment for all of us here at TMA. Infinity was designed to provide an unmatched level of comfort and sophistication for our guests, while retaining the seaplane travel experience. As the trusted gateway to some of the worlds most picturesque resorts, we are motivated to continue setting new standards in the aviation and hospital industry, as we aspire to enhance every aspect of our guests’ journeys, ensuring that each experience is extraordinary and unforgettable”.

Celebrating a Year of Milestones

 

In addition to this incredible achievement, TMA concluded 2024 with a myriad of prestigious titles under its belt, including:

  • World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2024 – World Travel Awards
  • Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2024 – World Travel Awards
  • Leading Tourist Transport Provider (Air) – South Asian Travel Awards
  • Most Sustainable Seaplane Operator in the Region – South Asian Business Excellence Awards 2024

Another defining moment of the year was the recognition of TMA’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility as a DHCEndorsed Service Center.

As the first airline in South Asia to achieve this honor, TMA continues to set benchmarks for operational excellence in aviation. As the world’s leading seaplane operator, TMA continues to elevate the standard of luxury travel in the Maldives, offering seamless and unforgettable journeys from the moment guests step into the lounge to the time they reach their destination. Trans Maldivian Airways looks forward to further enhancing its services and delivering exceptional experiences that set new benchmarks in the global aviation and hospitality industry

Trans Maldivian Airways & Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives Teams Up for the Ultimate Maldives Giveaway

, /by

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) and Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives have partnered to offer one lucky winner the chance to experience the ultimate Maldivian escape. This exclusive giveaway includes a lavish 3-night stay for two at the breathtaking Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives, with roundtrip seaplane transfers courtesy of the world’s largest seaplane operator, Trans Maldivian Airways.

The winner will enjoy a serene stay in a Sunrise Beach Villa on an all-inclusive meal plan, providing an unforgettable experience with turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and world-class amenities.

To participate, follow @barcelowhalelagoonmaldives and @transmaldivian on Instagram. Like the giveaway post, and tag a friend in the comments (each tag counts as an additional entry). For a bonus entry, share the post on your story and tag both accounts.

The giveaway closes on 11th December, and the winner will be announced on 15th December 2024 across Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives’ and Trans Maldivian Airways’ social media platforms.

This prize is valid for stays from May 1st to September 30th, 2025, excluding blackout dates. Terms and conditions apply.

The Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives is a unique 5-star resort nestled in South Ari Atoll, offering tranquillity, comfort, and beach chic vibes. With its coral gardens and turquoise waters, it’s ideal for couples, families, and adventurers. The resort features 100 villas, three restaurants, Sea Salt, Aqua and Breeze, a snack bar, Magical and three bars, Breeze, Magical and Sea Salt with two large infinity pools. Barceló Hotel Group, awarded “World’s Leading Hotel Management Company 2023 – World Travel Awards,” is the second largest chain in Spain and one of the 30 largest in the world in terms of number of rooms. Founded in 1931, this family-run organisation operates 280 four- and five-star city and holiday hotels, with more than 62,000 rooms across 25 countries, marketed under four brands. Renowned for its commitment to excellence, Barceló Hotel Group offers diverse travel experiences that combine luxury and sustainability to provide memorable stays for every guest.

Trans Maldivian Airways boasts the largest seaplane fleet in the world, with 65 DHC-6 Twin Otters, and has been an integral part of the Maldives’ tourism infrastructure. For the last three decades, TMA has provided seamless, scenic transfers, allowing travelers to experience the beauty of the Maldives from the skies. Transferring over a million passengers annually, TMA serves as the exclusive seaplane partner to over 80 of the Maldives’ finest resort destinations, connecting more than a million passengers each year across 14 atolls. Whether it’s scheduled flights, private charters, or bespoke excursions, TMA’s services cater to the diverse needs of its travelers, making it the preferred choice for those seeking convenience and adventure.


TMA Hosts Interactive Educational Visit for Students of Ghiyasuddin International School

, /by

On October 28, 2024, Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) welcomed 40 students from Ghiyassudin International School for an immersive educational visit at its facilities in Velana International Airport. The visit offered the students an exclusive opportunity to experience firsthand the operations of the world’s largest seaplane operator.

During the tour of TMA’s facilities at the state-of-the-art Noovilu Seaplane Terminal, the students engaged in a series of informative sessions led by experienced professionals from key departments such as Business Development, Human Resources, Safety & Security, Quality & Compliance, Aircraft Maintenance, and Flight Operations. These discussions provided valuable insights into the core functions and operations of these departments, offering a deeper understanding of the aviation sector.

A highlight of the visit was a lively Q&A session, where the students had the chance to interact directly with TMA professionals. This interaction helped the students gain a better understanding of various career paths within aviation, the qualifications required for different roles, and potential opportunities for their future.

As part of its commitment to youth development, TMA regularly collaborates with schools across the Maldives to raise awareness about career prospects in the tourism and aviation sectors. Through these educational initiatives, TMA aims to inspire the next generation of Maldivians to pursue careers in these dynamic fields.

Trans Maldivian Airways remains dedicated to supporting future generations through meaningful engagement and educational programs, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to the Maldivian aviation and tourism industries.