Ryanair Rules The Skies: Nearly Half Of Malta’s Flights In 2024!

Mar 29 2025

In an unprecedented leap, Malta’s air travel soared to new heights in 2024, with a staggering 55,850 scheduled flights connecting the island to 109 airports across 35 countries. This remarkable expansion signifies a robust recovery and growth in Malta’s aviation sector.

Leading the charge, Ryanair dominated the skies, operating 47.1% of all flights. Close behind, KM Malta Airlines secured a 23.4% share, ensuring that nearly 70% of Malta’s air traffic was managed by these two giants. This duopoly underscores their pivotal role in enhancing Malta’s global connectivity.

The summer months witnessed an aviation boom, with almost half of the year’s flights occurring between May and September. August peaked with 5,796 flights, highlighting Malta’s allure as a prime summer destination.

However, this surge in air travel comes with environmental considerations. The scheduled flights in 2024 resulted in approximately 1.11 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions. With the European Union set to remove free Emissions Trading System (ETS) allowances by 2026, travellers might face an average ticket price increase of over €10 per flight. This move aims to promote sustainable aviation practices across Europe.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises even greater connectivity for Malta. Anticipated passenger movements are projected to reach 9.3 million. Exciting new routes are on the horizon, including flights to Helsinki, Santorini, Rimini, and Benghazi. Notably, Qatar Airways plans to reinstate its connection to Doha, a key hub for long-haul travel, further solidifying Malta’s position on the global aviation map.

As Malta’s skies become busier, balancing growth with environmental responsibility remains crucial. Policymakers and airlines are tasked with navigating this dynamic landscape, ensuring that Malta’s aviation sector continues to thrive sustainably.

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WATCH: Behind the Scenes of €4 Million American Production Filming in Malta

Mar 29 2025

Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici, alongside Film Commissioner Johann Grech, visited the set of the American film The Ascent, which is currently being filmed in Malta.

With a budget exceeding €4 million, the production is making a significant contribution to the Maltese film industry, employing over 90 local crew members—more than three-quarters of the entire team.

Filming is scheduled to take place over 23 days, with key locations including the Malta Film Studios and Miġra l-Ferħa in Ħad-Dingli.

Directed by Adam Green, who is working in Malta for the first time, the film features well-known actors, including Gregg Sulkin.

Minister Bonnici emphasised that productions like The Ascent continue to strengthen Malta’s reputation as a premier filming destination.

He highlighted how the industry not only enhances the country’s international profile but also creates job opportunities for Maltese and Gozitan professionals.

During his visit, Minister Bonnici met with members of the Malta Film Commission, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting and expanding the local film industry.

The production of The Ascent further showcases Malta’s appeal as a top location for international filmmakers.

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Moviment Graffitti Launches Campaign To Save Manoel Island

Mar 29 2025

This morning, local communities and activist groups gathered at Manoel Island for Moviment Graffitti’s ‘Manoel Island: Post Għalina’ campaign launch.

Manoel Island, a rare open space surrounded by sea with stunning views, is seen as a vital area for public use and environmental conservation. The initiative calls on the Government to preserve and transform it into a national park, rather than allowing the development of luxury apartments.

Moviment Graffitti is urging people to support their cause by signing the campaign’s parliamentary petition.

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Moviment Graffitti Calls for End to Detention of Migrants in Malta

Mar 29 2025

Moviment Graffitti has called for an end to the detention of migrants in Malta, arguing that it is inhumane and unnecessary.

The organisation expressed solidarity with those held in detention centres, particularly in Ħal Safi, highlighting concerns over their treatment and living conditions.

The group criticised the detention of newly arrived migrants, including vulnerable individuals such as women, children, LGBTIQ+ persons, and those with serious physical and mental health conditions.

They also condemned the arrests of long-term residents who have been working and living in Malta regularly, only to be detained and deported.

Moviment Graffitti cited reports from the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture, which documented overcrowded, unsanitary conditions and a lack of access to basic rights, describing the situation as “inhuman and degrading.”

They also referenced a 2023 European Court of Human Rights ruling, which ordered the Maltese government to compensate a young migrant €28,000 for being held in such conditions for 225 days.

The organisation urged authorities to release vulnerable detainees, increase transparency at detention centres, stop prolonged detentions, and implement alternatives, such as supervised community living, which they argue is more humane and cost-effective than detention.

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