TMA Pilots Gather to Address Growing Tensions Over Salary Changes

Pilots along with cabin crews and engineers of Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) held a private meeting last night at the Waters Edge Rooftop in Hulhumalé amid ongoing frustration over recent salary revisions introduced under the newly implemented Foreign Currency Act.

The gathering marks the latest in a series of informal discussions sparked by TMA’s decision to temporarily revise its salary structure to an 80% US dollar and 20% Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) split. The adjustment, announced earlier this month, is said to be in place for two months while the company assesses its options under the new regulatory landscape.

Uncertainty Looms Beyond Temporary Measures

The root of employee concern lies in what may follow after the temporary salary arrangement ends. Many fear that TMA may move toward a higher MVR ratio or potentially a full MVR based salary without adequate consultation or preparation. Such a shift would significantly impact employees who have financial obligations based from the present US dollar earnings including loan repayments, family remittances, and other expenses.

While a formal strike has not been announced, internal discussions about escalating the matter are reportedly gaining momentum.

Currency Law Puts Pressure on Operators

The tensions stem from the implementation of the Foreign Currency Act (32/2024), passed earlier this year to increase foreign currency flow through official banking channels. The law mandates that qualifying companies especially those in the tourism sector must convert a portion of their foreign currency earnings through the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).

TMA, which operates the world’s largest seaplane fleet and plays a central role in inte -resort transfers, falls squarely under this requirement. The mandated conversions have significantly restricted its USD liquidity, forcing operational adjustments including to payroll.

Ripple Effects in the Aviation Sector

Other local carriers have begun adjusting their payroll structures as well. Manta Air has already shifted to a 50/50 USD-MVR salary split. The trend suggests that currency based salary shifts may become the new normal across the Maldivian aviation sector.

Such changes could affect talent retention and morale at a time when tourism and by extension, aviation is rebounding strongly post-pandemic.

With the Maldives heavily reliant on seamless resort transfers, any disruption at TMA could have wide-reaching consequences for the tourism industry. As the end of the temporary payroll policy draws nearer, all eyes are now on the company’s next move and whether employees calls will be heard.