Manta Air Secures MCAA D1 Rating, Expands In-House Aircraft Inspection Services

Manta Air has received approval from the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) to operate under a D1 rating, enabling the airline to carry out specialised Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) services on aircraft structures and components, the company said in a press release issued today.

The certification authorises Manta Air’s Maintenance Organisation to perform advanced inspections used to detect hidden cracks, corrosion and internal structural defects without damaging aircraft components. According to the airline, the approval places Manta Air among a limited number of operators in the Maldives with this level of technical capability.

Under the D1 rating, Manta Air is approved to conduct three NDT methods: liquid penetrant inspection, eddy current testing and ultrasonic testing. The airline said these techniques allow for the detection of surface, sub-surface and deep internal defects in both metallic and composite aircraft structures.

The press release said the airline’s dedicated NDT workshop is based at its maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Dhaalu Atoll Kudahuvadhoo. The facility features a temperature-controlled and ventilated environment, engineered lighting and specialised probe systems designed to ensure inspection accuracy and consistency.

Commenting on the development, Head of Engineering Pablo Alves said the approval marked a “strategic leap forward” for the airline’s engineering division. He said bringing specialised NDT services in-house would reduce reliance on outsourcing, cut costs and improve turnaround times for critical inspections, while strengthening overall fleet safety and reliability.

Manta Air said the D1 rating also allows it to offer certified NDT services to other airlines and aviation organisations operating in the Maldives, in addition to supporting its own fleet. The airline noted that the approval would reduce aircraft downtime and eliminate the need for third-party approvals for structural inspections.

According to the press release, the certification forms part of a broader, multi-year strategy to expand Manta Air’s engineering capabilities. Recent developments include upgrades to structural repair workshops, expanded livery and painting services, enhanced EMMA inspection processes, strengthened corrosion prevention programmes and improved battery servicing facilities.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Maumoon said the milestone reflected the airline’s ongoing investment in technical expertise and infrastructure. He said the approval would not only enhance service quality for Manta Air’s operations but also position the airline to support resort partners, industry stakeholders and other operators across the country.

Manta Air said it plans to introduce additional technical capabilities in 2026 as part of its long-term strategy to provide reliable and efficient maintenance services and to strengthen its role as an aviation engineering provider in the Maldives.