TMA Becomes the First Airline in Asia to be Endorsed by DeHavilland Canada

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the World’s Largest Seaplane Operator, proudly accepts the certificate of endorsement from De Havilland Canada, the manufacturer of the Twin-Otter aircraft. The endorsement recognizes the airlines’ Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul  (MRO) facility as a DHC Endorsed Service Center, marking a historic milestone for the company, being the very first organization to be recognized in the South Asia Region.

During the official endorsement ceremony held at TMA’s hangar at Velana International Airport on 5th May 2024, the esteemed certification was presented by De Havilland CEO, Mr. Brian Chafe to Trans Maldivian Airways CEO, Mr. A.U.M Fawzy. The event was graced by the presence of the owners of De Havilland, Mrs. Sherry Brydson and Mr. Robert McDonald, alongside senior management and representatives from both De Havilland and Trans Maldivian Airways.

TMA’s CEO Mr. Fawzy reflected on the company’s three-decade-long journey with the Twin Otter Aircraft during the ceremony, highlighting the intrinsic link between TMA’s success to the durability and versatility offered by the Twin Otter Aircraft. Mr. Fawzy also pledged TMA’s ongoing commitment to serving as the foremost brand ambassador for the Twin Otter aircraft globally, while extending his heartfelt gratitude to De Havilland for the support extended to TMA throughout the years.

Mr. Brian Chafe, CEO of DeHavilland Group expressed his admiration witnessing the sheer scale of the Twin Otter operations in the Maldives. He noted the impressive frequency of flights during peak hours, with take-offs and landings occurring nearly every minute, and having TMA complete 2 million flight cycles on Twin Otters, which is a feat that is unprecedented anywhere else in the world. Mrs. Sherry Brydson, & Mr. Robert McDonald, owners of DeHavilland echoed Mr. Chafe’s statement, expressing their astonishment at the seamless integration of Twin Otters into the Maldivian tourism industry and emphasizing their significant contribution. De Havilland Group reiterated their support for TMA and expressed eagerness for future collaboration opportunities, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in aviation history.

Trans Maldivian Airways is home to the largest MRO facility for Twin Otter Aircraft globally, enabling the airline to conduct Major Maintenance within the Maldives. These services encompass a wide range of offerings, covering full aircraft re-life, full wing re-life, full aircraft re-wiring, avionics and cockpit upgrades, cabin modifications, refurbished interiors, and interior standardization. Moreover, TMA’s MRO facility also houses several in-house shops and workshops, ensuring quality and efficiency.

With over 30 years of experience servicing various models of the Twin Otter aircraft family, Trans Maldivian Airways boasts a dedicated team of over 300 highly qualified aircraft maintenance personnel. Notably, TMA takes pride in nurturing its local talent in the field of aircraft maintenance, with a majority of local technicians and engineers holding key positions within the company.

TMA revolutionized the Maldivian tourism industry in 1993 with the introduction of Twin-Otter seaplanes, and has evolved into the world’s leading seaplane operator, with an impressive fleet of 65 DHC-6 Twin-Otters. The introduction of seaplanes bridged significant transportation gaps in the  country and has become an indispensable component of the Maldives experience.

TMA’s endorsement from De Havilland enhances the Maldives’ prominence in aircraft maintenance, garnering international acclaim for the nation, while further solidifying the airlines’ footprint as a preeminent global leader in the aviation industry.  As Trans Maldivian Airways continues to push the boundaries of excellence in aviation, this accomplishment marks a pivotal moment in TMA’s illustrious journey, setting new standards for innovation, service, and collaboration in the aviation industry.

TMA Awarded the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2023

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), has been awarded prestigious title of the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator at the 30th Annual World Travel Awards. Mr. A.U.M Fawzy, TMA’s CEO and Mr. Shubham Moondhara, Head of Corporate Strategy and Business Development, proudly accepted the award on behalf of the airline at the Gala event held at Dubai’s iconic Burj Al Arab on the 1st of December 2023. With travel & tourism industry professionals and guests voting to determine the winners in each category, the World Travel Awards are considered the ultimate mark of industry excellence.

Established in 1993, TMA has played a vital role in revolutionising the travel landscape of the Maldives, establishing point-to-point connectivity and providing crucial infrastructure support that has facilitated the development of resorts across the nation. As the Maldives continues to thrive as a premier destination and the number of resorts and tourist arrivals continue to grow, TMA remains committed to offering its partners increased flexibility and a range of tailor- made services, positioning itself as an indispensable partner in the continued success of the Maldives as a globally renowned island holiday destination.

Beyond dominating Maldivian aviation, TMA has has also become a global behemoth, exemplifying unparalleled efficiency across the entire aviation industry. The world’s largest seaplane operator, not only by scale. TMA operates over 400 daily flights, extends its services to over 90 world class resorts across 16 atolls, transports over a million passengers annually and operates a fleet of 65 De Haviland Twin Otters. TMA’s expansion efforts over the last 30 years have been driven by a commitment to meet the ever-growing needs of the industry, ensuring that TMA is ready to meet the dynamic demands of partner resorts with agility and excellence. Notably, TMA has expanded its operations beyond the conventional seaplane zone, now reaching Laamu and Gaafu Alifu Atoll, ensuring more guests can explore every corner of the Maldivian paradise with unrivaled convenience.

Trans Maldivian Airways has consistently distinguished itself in the industry, thanks to its relentless commitment to excellence an innovation in seaplane operations, and continues to be recognized as an industry leader globally. Recent accolades include “Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Transfer Provider (Air)” at the South Asian Travel Awards 2023 and “Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator” at the World Travel Awards 2023.These prestigious accolades reaffirm TMA’s position as the leading air transport provider in the Maldives.

The company expresses heartfelt gratitude to its esteemed resort partners and dedicated team members who consistently exceed expectations in providing superior services, maintaining its commitment to service excellence. Looking ahead, Trans Maldivian Airways remains focused on further enhancing its services, fostering trust, and instilling conVidence among its guests who rely on them as their Gateway to Paradise.

TMA Takes to the Skies with Jawakara Islands Maldives on Their Very Own Branded Aircraft

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) is thrilled to welcome the exquisite Jawakara Islands Resort, the latest gem in the Crown & Champa Resorts Portfolio. Nestled on the tranquil islands of Mabin and Dheru, connected by an overseas walkway to create a single breathtaking retreat, this pristine destination is just a 35-minute seaplane ride away from Velana International Airport.

As we extend a warm welcome to Jawakara Islands Maldives, we are equally excited to introduce the resorts very own branded aircraft to our ever-growing fleet. The custom-painted DHC-6 Twin Otter will be dedicated to transferring mutual guests of TMA and Jawakara Islands Maldives. The maiden flight to this tropical paradise took off on the 22nd of October 2023, signaling the beginning of an unforgettable journey for travelers.

We are grateful that Jawakara Islands Maldives has placed their trust in our commitment to excellence and look forward to enhancing and elevating the guest experience for our mutual guests as we take them across the pristine shores of Lhaviyani Atoll. TMA is honored to be the trusted seaplane partner for Crown & Champa properties and look forward to continue elevating the journey of travelers exploring these remarkable destinations in the Maldives.

TMA Welcomes Barcelo Whale Lagoon Maldives as the Newest Addition to Esteemed Portfolio

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) is pleased to welcome Barcelo Whale Lagoon Maldives, a captivating retreat located in the heart of South Ari Atoll as the latest addition to its esteemed portfolio of resorts in the Maldives.

We are absolutely delighted to be the chosen seaplane partner for the exquisite resort. Our commitment to enhancing the overall guest experience is unwavering, and we look forward to providing a seamless, unforgettable, and truly picturesque experience for our mutual guests from the very moment they set foot in the Maldives.

The resort’s official opening on the 13th of October 2023 was a momentous occasion, with numerous industry partners joining in the celebration at the grand opening ceremony. Nestled amidst the ethereal beauty of the Maldives, the Barceló Whale Lagoon Resort stands as a sanctuary that masterfully harmonizes the natural splendor of this idyllic destination with the highest levels of refined service and hospitality.

TMA named the Leading Tourist Transport Provider (Air) at SATA Awards 2023

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We are thrilled to be named the Leading Tourist Transport Provider (Air) at the prestigious South Asian Travel Awards 2023.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished panel of judges and all those who cast their votes for us. To our esteemed partners and incredible team, your integral roles in our success are truly appreciated. Thank you!

SATA Awards 2023 was held at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru on the 10th of October 2023 and was attended by industry professionals from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka; all nominees under multiple categories.

TMA Commences Seaplane Operations to Six Senses Laamu aboard the Flying Turtle

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We are delighted to introduce Six Senses Laamu as the newest jewel in our distinguished array of seaplane destinations. Equally thrilling is the arrival of the Flying Turtle by Six Senses Laamu, now a proud member of the world’s largest seaplane fleet.

On October 1st, TMA operated its inaugural flight to Six Senses Laamu on the Flying Turtle, commencing an awe-inspiring journey from Velana International Airport. The special livery, meticulously crafted and adorned by TMA’s in-house team for the resort, will be exclusively dedicated to transporting mutual guests of Trans Maldivian Airways and Six Senses Laamu. This bespoke experience will allow travelers to uncover the natural beauty and allure of Laamu Atoll like never before.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Six Senses Laamu for entrusting us with their transportation needs. We embark on this extraordinary journey together with great enthusiasm, unwavering in our commitment to deliver the highest level of service, ensuring that each leg of our mutual guests’ journey remains truly exceptional.

TMA Restarts Employee Recognition Program, Honors Outstanding Employees

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At Trans Maldivian Airways, we always believe in a culture of achievement and recognition, hence we do celebrate when our employees deliver above & beyond in serving our clients, fellow colleagues or the company. After a period of silence during the Covid Pandemic, we have now re-started our Employee Recognition Program, across the company.

We recently held our company-wide award ceremony for outstanding performance demonstrated by our employees during the times of pandemic, by going an extra mile serving the demands of the time under dire conditions. This is just a re-start of the TMA Employee Recognition program that sets the tone and paves the way for a finer bonding and enhanced engagement culture that we are thriving to have at all times among all teams in the time to come.

It’s our employees and teams that deliver a service excellence to our exclusive clientele in a challenging and demanding set up here in the Maldives – the Sunny side of life.  Each and every client is of utmost importance to our company, thus understanding their different needs and service standards, and delivering our services to their optimum satisfaction is the core in our operations. Therefore, we believe that employee engagement and a culture of recognition for people is crucial in a dynamic business environment like ours.

A simple ‘thank you’ is often all it takes to show appreciation to anyone. We go beyond, and have three levels of recognition to say ‘thank you’ for good deeds performed by our employees beyond their call of duty in delivering and serving our clients, fellow colleagues or the company.  Department level recognition, and company-wide recognition that steered by a ‘Recognition Committee’ are monthly events where any one can nominate any employee for their extraordinary contributions.  Annual Awards for excellence is an event that encompasses all great performance across the year.

At TMA, we recognize efforts tied to more than just performance, and it is our understanding that recognizing efforts openly boosts employee morale and amplifies the sense of achievement exceptionally. Therefore, whilst congratulating all 99 team mates those who received awards this time for their exemplary efforts during the past two years, we wish to continue with the cheerful culture of recognition at Trans Maldivian Airways, again and again, in the time to come!

Trans Maldivian Airways Starts Operating Sun Siyam Resort’s Branded Seaplane “Kamana”

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) operated the maiden flight on Sun Siyam Resorts’ Branded Seaplane from Male’ to Siyam World yesterday, 16thMay 2022. The custom painted DHC-6 Twin Otter showcasing the Maldivian tradition and culture will be specially dedicated to transferring mutual guests of TMA and Sun Siyam Resorts.

TMA is delighted to be the Seaplane partner operating daily flights to four properties under the Sun Siyam umbrella in the Maldives; Sun Siyam Iru Fushi and Siyam World located in Noonu Atoll, and Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef in Dhaalu Atoll.

Trans Maldivian Airways Celebrates the Underwater World of Maldives

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Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) unveiled an aircraft with a new special livery to celebrate the underwater world of Maldives. The event held yesterday evening at TMA Seaplane Base was graced by the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, who was joined by the Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation Mr Thoyyib Mohamed, the Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of Maldives Airports Company Ltd, Mr. Gordon Andrew Stewart, along with the senior management of Trans Maldivian Airways and other major stakeholders.

With the launch of this new livery, Trans Maldivian Airways hopes showcase the beauty and importance of marine life, and raise awareness and promote sustainable continuity of biodiversity and the world’s oceans at the same time. Trans Maldivian Airways recognizes the importance and is passionately involved in projects that promote continuity in the seas, oceans and marine life. Most notably, TMA also actively supports Olive Ridley Project’s Marine Turtle Rescue Centre by helping them transport rescued turtles.

TMA operates inaugural flight to Radisson Blu, Maldives

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Trans Maldivian Airways is thrilled to operate the inaugural flight to Radisson Blu Maldives today, 01stAugust 2020.

The very first guests to the stunning Radisson Blu Maldives located in South Ari Atoll enjoyed the scenic journey from Velana International Airport. The picturesque islands are seen in all their glory when viewed from above and the seaplane journey is often cited as one of the most memorable moments of a Maldives holiday. We take pride in providing such “once in a life time” moments for our mutual guests.

Radisson Blu Maldives set amidst some of the most amazing coral reefs, the resort’s first-class sea sports and dive center will offer guests an array of activities, set for adrenaline pumping action. For those seeking to rejuvenate and restore, the yoga pavilion and spa will be the ethos of wellness as moves are practiced in the tranquil surrounds of the island. Dining at the restaurants and bar on the island promise to tantalize even the most discerning palate with unique cuisines and experiences.

We at Trans Maldivian Airways are delighted to have been chosen to provide the transfer service to yet another beautiful resort destination.