Originally called Hummingbird Island Helicopters, TMA is the oldest and, in many ways, the most experienced Air transfer operator in the Maldives. It pioneered the use of aircraft to transport tourists to island based resorts. In doing so, it has made a significant contribution to the development of tourism to the Maldives, which in turn has resulted in major benefits to the national economy. Founded in 1989, the company operated a strictly helicopter fleet of aircraft until the introduction of the first seaplanes in 1997. The transition to a 'seaplane-only' fleet of aircraft was completed in January of 1999.  TMA now operates 16 Twin Otters, all but one of the DHC-6-300 type, and 2 ATR-42-320s.