Maleth-Aero, Carnival Trim Claims in Charter Flights Dispute

Maltese charter carrier Maleth-Aero (MLT, Malta International) and cruise operator Carnival have adjusted the size of their claims and counterclaims in an ongoing legal dispute before the London Circuit Commercial Court over the costs and payments for a series of Caribbean charter flights.

According to updated filings in case LM-2024-000190 at the UK High Court of Justice, Carnival has reduced its claim against Maleth-Aero from USD 4 million to USD 3.8 million. In response, the airline lowered its counterclaims from USD 3.7 million to USD 2.8 million.

The dispute originates from two charter agreements signed in July 2023 covering flights between the UK and the Caribbean, operated between November 2023 and March 2024. Carnival initially sought to recover USD 3.3 million, alleging Maleth-Aero overcharged for catering, alcohol, and other services not covered under contract terms. The cruise line also claimed it paid USD 1.2 million under duress when threatened with service suspension.

Maleth-Aero countered that Carnival was liable for extra expenses, including catering, alcohol, baggage fees, and costs from a December 2023 diversion to Bermuda. It maintains that Carnival still owes nearly USD 798,377 as of July 9, 2025, with the amount increasing daily. The airline also holds more than USD 2 million of Carnival’s security deposit.

While Maleth-Aero scaled back certain claims related to fuel rate adjustments and late payments, it increased demands linked to alcohol charges and the Bermuda diversion.

Separately, on August 16, the Canadian Transportation Agency suspended Maleth-Aero’s charter licence between Malta and Canada pending renewal of liability insurance.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com