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

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.