Manta Air, a private airline based in Maldives, has announced it is seeking additional 12 DHC6 Twin Otter aircrafts to expand its seaplane service.

According to Manta Air, the decision is in line with its strategic growth plans, and designed to meet the continuing high demand from new resort customers.

The airline on Tuesday asked interested parties to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOI) with proposals to lease or sell 12 DHC6 Twin Otter aircraft for delivery dates in 2023 and 2024 by 12:00 pm on January 15.

According to Manta Air, the airline has experienced a tremendous growth in demand within a short span of time since the launch of its seaplane service in 2019.

Manta Air believes the arrival of the airline has been a game changer in the domestic aviation industry, removing uncertainty on flight timings for passengers flying in the Maldives, and setting new standards in service excellence through its pre-published schedules and a tailored approach to providing a best-in-class experience to all passengers.

Commenting on the plans for expansion, Manta Air’s CEO Mohamed Khaleel said the airline is continuously striving to expand and meet the demands of its customers.

“Our superior quality services now have been accepted by the tourism industry and we have seen a significant growth in customer demand for our product. Our shareholders are committed to continue investing and expanding the company and these plans for additional aircraft are to create the capacity required for us to bring on board the new customers waiting in our pipeline,” he said.

Khaleel said the addition of 12 aircrafts will allow Manta Air to expand its network to more parts of the Maldives and allow thousands more tourists to experience “the Manta way to fly.”

Manta Air currently has 16 aircrafts in its seaplane fleet, and operates to 30 resorts.