The Air Wing supports the surveillance of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and conducts search and rescue (SAR) operations.
Tonga's first attempt to start an air wing happened in 1986, when a Victa Airtourer light aircraft was obtained.
[2] On 4 May 1996, the air wing was created successfully, with Tonga obtaining a Beech 18.
[2] In 1999, Tonga obtained a Citabria to assist with training.
[2] In 2008, a new aircraft was promised by the Chinese Ambassador to Tonga, Fan Guijin.