British Airways set to return to Malta

UK flag carrier airline British Airways is set to return to Malta after dropping its Malta-Gatwick service in 2009.

Tourism Minister Karmenu Vella hailed the announcement as "a vote of confidence" in Malta.

"There is a strong link between adequate seat capacity and success within the tourism industry. It is within this context that I warmly welcome the British Airways return as from next March," Vella said.

"This announcement is a vote of confidence in our islands by one of the world's leading flag carriers."

The airline's return is set to further strengthen Malta's links with both London and beyond.

"It should also serve to boost both the leisure and the conference sectors." 

The Ministry for Tourism said the British Airlines' return was the result of continuous process among the ministry, the Malta Tourism Authority and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the vital industry.

Vella thanked the Malta Tourism Authority and Malta International Airport for handling the discussions and bringing them to a successful conclusion.In 2009, British Airways announced it was suspending services to Malta as part of a company wide review of routes.

In the late 1980s, the airline had also ceased operations to Malta, citing costs. The London-Malta route was then taken over by British Airways franchise GB Airways.