KM Malta Airlines Begins Operations as Malta’s New Flag Carrier

KM Malta Airlines has officially commenced its commercial flights, marking the dawn of a new era in Maltese aviation as it succeeds the 50-year-old Air Malta, which concluded its operations on March 30. The transition to KM Malta Airlines was inaugurated with an Airbus A320-200N, registered as 9H-NEF, performing flights to key European destinations including Munich, Zurich, Rome Fiumicino, and Prague Václav Havel, immediately after its arrival from Catania on March 31.

The final flight under Air Malta’s banner, operated by an A320neo, 9H-NED, made its last journey to London Heathrow before returning to Malta, symbolizing the end of an era for the legacy carrier.

The establishment of KM Malta Airlines comes as a strategic move to revitalize Malta’s aviation sector, following consistent financial struggles faced by Air Malta. The European Commission has sanctioned state aid for the new flag carrier, amounting to EUR350 million, including funds allocated for working capital and asset acquisition. This financial backing aims to secure the future of air connectivity for Malta, with plans to seek a strategic partnership while maintaining major government shareholding after three years.

International aviation consultancy, Knighthood Global, was instrumental in guiding the transition, ensuring compliance with European Union regulations and executing a seamless launch. The consultancy emphasized that the business plan for KM Malta Airlines focuses on maintaining a strong network to key destinations, leveraging a modern, fuel-efficient fleet to guarantee stable and year-round connectivity for the island nation.

Transitioning to KM Malta Airlines, the airline will utilize a fleet comprising six A320neo jets, sourced from leases with AerCap and Avolon. Additionally, one of Air Malta’s A320-200s has been incorporated into KM Malta Airlines, with other aircraft from the legacy fleet being maintained or operated under wet-lease arrangements.

This strategic shift heralds a new chapter in Malta’s aviation history, with KM Malta Airlines set to carry the legacy of national air travel into a new era of efficiency, connectivity, and growth.