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Malta To Be Better Connected To Australia, Japan, China And More As Qatar Airways Returns

Malta To Be Better Connected To Australia, Japan, China And More As Qatar Airways Returns
Local

Qatar Airways is set to resume direct flights between Malta and Doha in March 2027, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced during his reaction to Budget 2027.

The announcement forms part of the Government's efforts to improve Malta's international connectivity and attract more tourists from markets beyond Europe.

Speaking in Parliament, Abela confirmed that Qatar Airways will be returning to Malta, providing passengers with direct access to Doha and connecting the island to the airline's extensive global network.

The airline previously launched direct flights between Malta International Airport and Doha's Hamad International Airport in June 2019, initially operating daily flights during summer and four weekly services during winter.

After suspending the route during the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar Airways returned to Malta on 2nd July 2025, offering four direct flights weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

The service was operated using Airbus A320 aircraft, with flights between Malta and Doha taking approximately five hours.

However, the route was subsequently affected by disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East in 2026.

The airline's return in March 2027 is expected to provide Maltese travellers with easier connections to destinations including Australia, Japan, China, India and the Philippines through its Doha hub.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Robert Abela also confirmed that negotiations are underway with Delta Air Lines to secure direct flights between Malta and New York once again in 2027.

Delta began operating its direct Malta-New York JFK service in June 2026, with three weekly flights connecting the two destinations.

According to Government figures, the route recorded an average seat occupancy rate of 84% up to 21st September, prompting discussions about extending the service into 2027.

With Qatar Airways' return confirmed and negotiations with Delta continuing, the Government is seeking to strengthen Malta's international connections and attract more long-haul visitors to the Maltese Islands.

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