Tourists at MIA welcomed with music and colour for 3.5 million-passenger record

Four local music acts entertained visitors around the airport, while colourful T-shirts from Air Malta's collaboration with YMCA Homeless Kids Project were handed out as gifts - representing MIA's donation to the cause.

"Summer may have officially ended last month, but for anyone involved in the aviation industry, the summer season ends this week. And since we've had such a record summer, we decided to give a little something back and celebrate with some great music," said MIA CEO Markus Klaushofer.

Today was also the day that MIA welcomed its 3.5 millionth passenger. Last year, the 3.5 million-passenger record was achieved in December, whereas this year it has already been reached two months earlier, Klaushofer added.

"This has been a fantastic year for tourism in Malta and all the signs point towards more growth. When you hit one record after another, it's easy for things to be taken for granted. But it is important to keep in mind that all we have achieved has been thanks to hard work and cooperation with all the stakeholders involved. We look forward to keep investing in our product and attracting new people to this beautiful island," Klaushofer said.

He was speaking in the presence of Tourism Minister Karmenu Vella who visited the event to show his support together with representatives from Air Malta, Malta Tourism Authority and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association.

The bands performing at the airport were Red Electrick, Stalko, Skarlet and Joe Roscoe.

YMCA's Homeless Kids Project aims to help homeless youths with the transition they face once they become adults and often find nowhere to go. This pilot project co-organised by the Ministry for Family and Social Solidarity, was promoted at this year's Isle of MTV with the help of MTA, Air Malta and G7.