Manta Air pilots and engineers set to go on strike

Pilots and engineers at Manta Air have officially announced their decision to go on strike this coming Saturday, July 4, following the collapse of lengthy negotiations regarding the restoration of salary deductions.

Aviators Maldives has reported that although the airline's operations are showing signs of recovery, the strike was triggered by the company's failure to reinstate salary deductions implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. The industrial action stems from a long-standing grievance that has escalated because employees' rights and benefits have not been restored in tandem with the company's improving financial situation.

The root of this issue traces back to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that period, as global air travel came to a standstill, Manta Air implemented significant salary cuts for its staff, mirroring measures taken by airlines worldwide. The report notes that employees cooperated with these measures without objection at the time, recognizing them as necessary steps to ensure the company's survival after revenues plummeted due to the total absence of travelers.

However, despite the recovery of the tourism industry and the return of travel to pre-pandemic levels, salaries have not been fully restored. The statement further noted that even though operations are now in full swing, employees continue to receive lower pay than the amounts previously deducted.

Just as the travel industry was beginning to stabilize, the Maldivian aviation sector faced renewed challenges due to escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Disruptions at major Middle Eastern transit hubs led to fluctuations in tourist arrivals, resulting in financial difficulties for Maldivian airlines.

In response to the current situation, Manta Air management issued an internal memo in early May announcing salary reductions effective from May 1, 2024, through July 31, 2026. The company stated that the situation would be reviewed upon the expiration of this period. Furthermore, a "business update" released on April 13 warned of potential redundancies in accordance with regulations. The airline attributed these measures to the adverse impact of regional conflicts on its business operations.

When Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) decided to restore full salaries in June, many viewed it as a sign of recovery within the industry. However, concerns remain that wages could be cut again in the future, as TMA’s adjustment was reportedly only a temporary measure. The statement further noted that Manta Air’s refusal to ease pay cuts has led to significant unrest among its employees.

According to a report published by Aviators Maldives, citing staff representatives, the current situation differs significantly from the COVID-19 pandemic era. While employees did not protest pay cuts during the pandemic when operations were at a standstill, representatives stated that reducing salaries now—while staff are fulfilling their full responsibilities and working under a heavy workload—is unacceptable.

According to reports, management has maintained salary reductions in light of the losses incurred by the company over the past few years. However, employees argue that cutting wages without any reduction in their workload is unjust.

The primary cause of the escalating tension is the significant disparity between the demanding work environment and the compensation provided. Pilots and engineers shoulder immense safety responsibilities at all times, performing tasks that are both mentally and physically taxing.

The strike, scheduled to begin on Saturday, is expected to cause significant disruptions to domestic flight operations across the Maldives. As Manta Air plays a pivotal role in transporting tourists to various destinations, reports indicate that this industrial action will negatively impact tourist travel and resort operations.

Manta Air has yet to issue an official statement regarding the strike. According to staff representatives, the industrial action will continue until a satisfactory resolution is reached regarding their demands.