News
Manta Air to add two ATR 72-600s from lessor NAC
October 26th 2018
Maldives carrier, Manta Air, leased two ATR 72-600s’ from Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC), the first of the type to be delivered to the new domestic carrier. Read More »
NAC will deliver the maiden turboprop next month with the second aircraft expected to arrive at Manta Air "before the end of the year". Initially the ATRs will fly from Male Velana International Airport to Kudahuvadhoo in Dhaalu Atoll, Dharavandhoo in Baa Atoll and Thimarafushi in Thaa Atoll.
Unlike its local competition, Manta Air will be introducing a business class service on its domestic network.
“Manta Air is an exciting new domestic airline based in the Republic of Maldives. Our mission is to make flying an enjoyable and effortless experience by ensuring the highest safety standards are established and maintained. We are introducing two brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft into the Maldives. This demonstrates Manta Air’s dedication to high standards and our commitment offers the best levels of service for our passengers. These aircraft benefit from having the most modern and comfortable turboprop cabin. Manta Air has taken the unusual step of removing a row of seats to provide our passengers with additional legroom in both economy and business class," said airline COO, Edward Alsford.
“We are pleased to see our first ATR 72-600 aircraft being introduced in the Maldives and contributing to the further development of air connectivity in this region. The ATR 72-600s perfectly match the requirements for short-haul travel in terms of low operating costs, comfort and ability to take-off and land at small airfields," said NAC founder and chairman, Martin Møller.
“It is a special occasion to be part of the launch of an airline such as Manta Air. Their choice highlights their confidence in the ATR 72-600 as the best aircraft for their successful daily operations in the Maldives. It demonstrates once again the value of ATR for connecting island communities whilst allowing airlines to take advantages of its unbeatable economics and comfort," said newly-installed ATR CEO, Stefano Bortoli.
The Pratt & Whitney PW127M-powered ATR 72-600 can operate from runways as short as 1200 meters. The aircraft seats 68-78 passengers. Its maximum range is 900nm.
NAC is a regional aircraft lessor serving more than 70 airline customers in 49 countries. The firm is the largest owner and lessor of ATR aircraft. Last week, NAC delivered an ATR 72-600 to Garuda Indonesia.
