Malta Engages Knighthood Global to Facilitate Launch of New Carrier

The Maltese government has enlisted the expertise of Knighthood Global, an international aviation consultancy led by former Etihad Airways executives James Hogan and James Rigney, to assist in the closure of Air Malta and the launch of a new national carrier, KM Malta Airlines.

Finance Minister Clyde Caruana disclosed the contract details in Parliament on October 11, revealing that the consultancy firm was appointed to provide financial and strategic advice. The EUR200,000 euros (USD210,000) per month contract, initiated in June 2022 and extended in January, is set to conclude at the end of 2023.

The decision to establish KM Malta Airlines follows the Maltese parliament’s approval of a five-year business plan developed by Knighthood Global. The plan outlines a strategic roadmap for the establishment of the new national carrier, which will commence operations on March 31, 2024, coinciding with the closure of Air Malta after 50 years of operation.

Knighthood Global has also been tasked with initiating a comprehensive planning process for negotiations with the European Commission. This strategic move aims to navigate the challenges after multiple unsuccessful attempts to revive and reposition Air Malta over two decades, coupled with financial losses and a lack of further state aid from Brussels.

The consultancy’s responsibilities include facilitating a smooth transition between the old and new airlines, reviewing funding requirements, developing a communications strategy, aligning work practices with industry standards, and configuring a financial accounting system.

Beyond its role in Malta, Knighthood Global has been actively engaged in developing a strategic plan for the Zimbabwean government to revitalize the country’s aviation industry, including Air Zimbabwe. The consultancy collaborates with ACMI and charter specialist Hi Fly Malta to provide comprehensive airline solutions.