SeaWorld Orlando is allowing riders onto its new flying coaster, Manta, from 9am every day this week.

This is an extension of the hours that applied last week, when the ride ran from noon until closing time. It also represents an increase in the length of the soft opening period, which was originally announced as running from May 5-10. The official opening date for the ride remains set at May 22.

Manta has opened to rave reviews (such as these from Theme Park Insider and DoingFlorida), and is expected to attract heavy crowds during its first season. TPT recommends arriving at the park early with a pre-purchased ticket, and rushing straight to Manta in order to avoid a long wait.

Manta is the third major ride at Seaworld Orlando following Kraken and Journey to Atlantis. More details are available at the coaster's official website.

You can keep up to date with the latest confirmed and rumored opening dates for new attractions over at Theme Park Tourist's "New Attraction Watch" section.

Have you experienced Manta? What did you think of it? How does it compare to other flying coasters around the world, such as Air at Alton Towers? Let us know in the comments section below.