Manta Air Employees Hold Internal Meetings as Tensions Intensify Over USD Salary Change

Tension is growing among Manta Air employees following the recent implementation of a revised salary structure dividing payments  between US dollars (USD) and Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).

The airline has cited recently introduced foreign currency regulations as the primary reason for the adjustment, stating that it has become increasingly difficult to process full salaries in USD.

However, many employees perceive the change as an effective reduction in their salary, particularly those who have long relied on USD-based income to meet their financial commitments.

“Regardless of the explanation, this is a pay cut for us,” said one staff. “Living costs continue to rise, and the weakening of the Rufiyaa only adds to our financial stress.”

Employees have started holding informal meetings to exchange information and explore potential collective responses.

While no formal action has been announced, pressure is mounting on management following the changes, as employees express growing concern over the decision’s impact calling for transparency, fairness, and a possible review of alternatives.

The situation has drawn comparisons to recent events at Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), where a similar salary change led to internal pushback and the eventual reinstatement of full USD salaries.

If unresolved, these salary changes and the resulting employee dissatisfaction could escalate tensions within Manta Air, potentially leading to protests or collective action.

Such unrest among frontline aviation employees risks disrupting flight operations, which could in turn affect the reliability of air travel services vital to the Maldives’ tourism industry.

Given that tourism is a cornerstone of the national economy and that a positive image of seamless travel is essential to maintaining visitor confidence, prolonged internal disputes could harm both the Maldives’ reputation as a premier travel destination.

Prompt, transparent dialogue and a fair resolution are crucial to preserving workforce morale, operational stability, and the Maldives’ global tourism image.