Airlines

Malta Announces New National Airline: A Strategic Move for Economic Growth and Connectivity

The government of Malta today announced the creation of a new national airline that will begin operations on March 31, 2024, when Air Malta ends its 50-year run.

This comes after the Maltese parliament approved a five-year business plan that lays out the strategic course for the creation of a new national carrier for the island nation.

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It is recognized that a national carrier is an essential component of Malta’s economy, ensuring dependable connectivity between the island nation and mainland Europe throughout the year and simultaneously strengthening the nation’s aviation infrastructure, which is essential not only to tourism but also to Malta’s economic growth, development, and diversification.

The head of Knighthood Global, James Hogan, said: “This is a fantastic day for Malta and its aviation sector. We are honoured to have assisted in the creation of the plan, which has now been approved by the Maltese parliament and represents a new turning point in Malta’s aviation history.

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“We worked cooperatively on the ground with the Executive Chairman of Air Malta, the government, and the European Commission during a difficult process of strategic business planning and negotiations to create a new, future-proof airline that will improve the nation’s business climate and ensure its global competitiveness. “We firmly believe that Malta can re-establish a proud and sustainable airline to serve all market segments.”

The two main drivers of the five-year business plan are a strong network of important destinations and a current, fuel-efficient fleet. The plan defines the components of a commercial mix built around a compelling, customer-centric proposal. Only a workforce that is motivated and devoted can deliver this. The administration has made a number of crucial moves in this regard to establish the groundwork for a workforce that is the correct size and shape.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.