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SAMPLE PARADISE ON A MANTA SEAPLANE WORRY FREE!
from RAYS Issue 3
The arrival of Manta Air has been a game changer, transforming the domestic air travel industry of Maldives from what had essentially been a ‘bus service’ to a professionally managed and operated airline, which offers safe, reliable, comfortable and seamless journeys throughout the archipelago.
Manta Air began its operations in February 2019 with a four weekly service between the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport and its hub at Dhaalu Airport in Kudahuvadhoo. The airline has since expanded its fleet to include three brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft, expanding its operations to Dharavandhoo in Baa atoll and Kooddoo in Gaafu Alif atoll.
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Manta Air’s DHC-6 Twin Otter planes come with the latest technology.
In just a year, Manta Air has removed the fear of uncertainty for passengers flying in the Maldives, and set new standards in service excellence along the way with pre-published schedules and a tailored approach to provide an amazing experience to all passengers.
Manta Air aims to replicate this success in its recentlylaunched seaplane service too!
Just like its strategy in domestic operations, Manta Air’s seaplane service follows an approach that is different from existing seaplane operators in the Maldives. For instance, Manta Air’s seaplane operations also follow a pre-published schedule, which is devised in coordination with client resorts. Most routes are direct, whilst the few requiring transit points restricted to maximum one stop. For seaplane as well, transfer confirmation are sent to guests along with their resort booking confirmation.
“Our aim from day one has always been to make a significant difference in how our customers experience air travel in Maldives. We are starting with fixed schedule, advanced booking capabilities. For the first time in Maldives, we are making the seaplane service reliable to all our passengers by operating on a fixed schedule dedicated to on-time performance. And we want to keep pushing these boundaries and to keep improving our service. Our customers will have guaranteed seats the moment the booking is confirmed with exact flight timings, thus removing all uncertainties for passengers travelling to their destinations on seaplanes,” Ahmed Maumoon, Chief Marketing Officer of Manta Air, said.
“The overwhelming support of the public has been a driving force for us. And we would like to assure everyone that we would keep on expanding our services so that everyone can enjoy their tropical way to fly.”
For its seaplane operations, Manta Air has already brought in six DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, with another four expected to join its fleet by year-end.
Manta Air is the only airline offering scheduled seaplane service in the Maldives.
Manta Air’s DHC-6 Twin Otter planes come with the latest technology; the Garmin G950 NXi next generation integrated flight deck avionics, combined with a weather radar and custom upgrades allow the aircraft to be lighter, reducing maintenance costs and providing crew with enhanced capabilities to increase dispatch reliability.
“At Manta Air, we strive to provide the best service to our customers. We believe there is a need to invest in the latest technology and not rely on the obsolete legacy navigation systems to make our service as customer-centric as possible. This is why we invested in G950 and the latest aviation software. This upgrade removes 100s feet of cable from the cockpit and makes the aircraft lighter, reduces maintenance costs and provides our crews with enhanced capabilities to increase the dispatch reliability of our service,” Edward Alsford, Chief Operating Officer of Manta Air, said.
Seaplane is the preferred mode of transport between the main Velana International Airport and dozens of resorts, especially those located in outer atolls.
The rapid growth of the Maldivian tourism industry has pushed the domestic aviation industry to meet the increasing demands and challenges faced by the country’s main economic activity. Through a combination of domestic and seaplane operations, Manta Air aims to address this by providing a unique flying experience, which is seamless, reliable and hospitable, whilst providing an extraordinary experience in the skies of the Maldives.
On a Manta seaplane, it’s not just the breath-taking views of the Maldivian archipelago that will leave you speechless, but also the level of service and experience that you rightfully deserve on your way to a paradisiacal island.
So, sit back, sample paradise and enjoy the journey – with Manta Air!