Updated | Iron Maiden’s frontman suggests he could 'rock in Malta's megalithic temples'

Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson quipped that the heavy metal band could play a gig at one of Malta's megalithic temples.

"We will definitely go on tour next year, but where we will go remains a mystery," Dickinson told a press conference. "However, I certainly wont object to come to Malta as part of the tour and Steve [Garris] certainly wouldn't either."

Dickinson is in Malta for a meeting with Transport Malta's Captain Michael O'Brien and Carl Tabone to confirm the final certification details for his new airline, VVB, that will allow it to operate in Europe under EU law.

The rockstar and aviation expert heaped praise on Transport Malta for their efficiency in processing his application.

"The Maltese have been unbelievably helpful, agile and forward-thinking in their approach to business," he said. "There's been no lack of safety, but I was impressed with their speed in getting us operational. While other jurisdictions were quoting up to nine months, Malta managed to get it done in some 16 weeks."

Dickinson expects his new ACMI airline to be fully operational as of Saturday and pledged to employ Maltese locals within the business.

Dickinson quit Iron Maiden in 1993 in order to pursue his solo career. He rejoined the band in 1999 with whom he released four subsequent studio albums. Since his return to Iron Maiden, he issued one further solo record in 2005, Tyranny of Souls.

According to Cardiff Aviation, Dickinson “is legendary within the airline industry”.

“His enthusiasm, dedication and knowledge of all things in the world of aviation is extensive. He demonstrates huge enthusiasm for sharing his passion for aviation. This has led him to successfully set up many ventures within the aviation industry. He has considerable experience as an airline Captain on the Boeing 757 and 737. In addition to this, Bruce is a Type Rating Instructor and Technical Instructor on the Boeing 737.”

Cardiff Aviation is a large service and maintenance facility in the UK. The new airline, operating under the VVB brand, is in the process of acquiring an EASA operating license. According to reports, the first aircraft to join the airline will be a 737-400 which will go straight into ACMI operations.