Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) has further consolidated its position at the forefront of seaplane aviation after securing two prestigious accolades at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards. The airline has been named the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025 and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025, underscoring its central role in connecting Maldives’ resort islands with the global tourism market. The ceremony, hosted at Exhibition World Bahrain, gathered more than 300 senior figures from across the international travel and tourism industry, providing a prominent platform to recognise TMA’s continued contribution to the sector.
Established in 1993, TMA operates the world’s largest seaplane fleet, comprising 65 DHC 6 Twin Otter aircraft. From its base in the Maldives, the airline serves over 80 resort destinations scattered across the archipelago, conducting more than 400 flights daily. These operations provide a critical transport bridge between Velana International Airport and resort islands, enabling smooth last-leg transfers for international visitors. For many guests, the seaplane journey is the first immersive experience of the Maldives, offering an aerial view of lagoons, reefs, and islands that complements the high-end service standards of the country’s resorts. TMA’s ability to move passengers efficiently and reliably has become a key factor in sustaining occupancy levels and enhancing the overall guest experience for luxury properties and mid-scale resorts alike.
The airline’s service model is built on safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. By maintaining a large and specialised seaplane fleet, TMA can offer frequent departures that align with international flight arrivals and departures, minimising waiting times and ensuring that resort operators can plan guest movements with confidence. This operational capability has been particularly important as the Maldives continues to attract increasing numbers of visitors from traditional and emerging source markets. Resorts depend on TMA’s schedule integrity and network coverage to deliver seamless door-to-door travel for their guests, reinforcing the Maldives’ positioning as a premium, well-connected destination.
Commenting on the recent achievements, TMA Chief Executive Officer A.U.M. Fawzy stated that the awards reflect the trust placed in the company by both industry partners and guests. He highlighted that TMA’s success is closely linked with its long-term relationships with resorts, tour operators, and other tourism stakeholders across the Maldives. According to Fawzy, the airline plans to build on decades of experience by continuing to refine the transfer experience and aligning its services with the evolving expectations of resort clientele.
TMA is currently enhancing its operational capabilities through an ongoing programme of investment in fleet improvements, infrastructure, staff training, and technology. These developments are designed to support rising passenger volumes while maintaining the airline’s established standards of service. Upgraded systems and processes are expected to strengthen coordination with resort partners, improve turnaround times, and enhance real-time communication regarding guest movements, all of which are critical for resorts that offer tightly curated itineraries and personalised services.
As the Maldives anticipates further growth in tourist arrivals in the coming years, TMA has reiterated its commitment to supporting national tourism objectives and working closely with industry partners. By ensuring dependable, efficient, and comfortable transfers to resort islands, the airline continues to play a strategic role in the overall value chain of Maldivian tourism. Its latest recognition at the World Travel Awards serves as an affirmation of TMA’s contribution to the country’s resort sector and its ongoing efforts to sustain the Maldives’ reputation as one of the world’s most desirable island destinations.
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