TMA Pilots to Suspend Flights Amid Salary Currency Dispute

A group of pilots working for Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the world’s largest seaplane operator, has announced plans to halt flight operations starting July 26. The move is in protest of the company’s recent change in salary disbursement — a change that pilots say undermines long-standing agreements.

Salary Split Sparks Frustration Among Pilots

Pilots have raised concerns over TMA’s new policy of paying a portion of their salaries in Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) instead of the full amount in US dollars, which has been the standard practice for years. According to one pilot who spoke on condition of anonymity, TMA management has already been notified about the upcoming work stoppage.

As per the revised payment scheme, effective from July, 20 percent of staff salaries will be issued in Rufiyaa, while the remaining 80 percent will still be paid in US dollars. Pilots are calling for a complete reversal of the decision, insisting on 100 percent of their pay in dollars.

Attempts to Seek Government Mediation Fall Flat

While discussions have taken place internally, pilots have also attempted to involve government officials in hopes of resolving the conflict. So far, these efforts have gone unanswered, and no formal meetings with relevant authorities have taken place.

The dispute has been brewing for several weeks and reflects broader frustration within the aviation sector over foreign currency handling regulations and the knock-on effects they are having on employees.

Company Caught Between Regulations and Operational Costs

TMA’s controversial salary adjustment appears to be a direct response to new foreign currency deposit rules imposed under the revised Foreign Exchange Act. As of January this year, companies categorized under “Category A” are required to deposit either USD 500 per tourist or 20 percent of their monthly gross income. “Category B” companies are required to deposit USD 25 per tourist or the same 20 percent threshold.

Faced with the financial strain of these new obligations, TMA reportedly sought permission to cover some of its expenses — such as jet fuel and service fees — using local currency. That request was denied by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), which manages Velana International Airport.

In the absence of approval, the airline chose to reroute its Rufiyaa reserves toward partial salary payments, sparking the current unrest.

Over 200 Pilots May Join the Suspension

With a workforce of more than 200 pilots, the potential disruption to TMA’s operations is significant. Industry insiders warn that even a short suspension could impact tourism transfers and strain the peak travel season.

Junior captains at TMA reportedly earn around USD 6,000 per month, while experienced captains can take home up to USD 12,000. For many of these professionals, partial payments in Rufiyaa raise concerns about fluctuating exchange rates, purchasing power, and financial commitments made in foreign currencies.

Unless an agreement is reached before July 26, TMA may be forced to ground flights, causing ripple effects across the Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy. With peak tourist traffic continuing through the summer months, pressure is mounting on both the airline and government stakeholders to find common ground — and quickly.

For now, all eyes are on the company’s next steps, as pilots prepare to make their voices heard in one of the most high-profile labor disputes the Maldives aviation sector has faced in recent years.