This evening, the first Boeing 717 aircraft bearing Volotea’s distinct, colourful checks landed at Malta International Airport from Catania. Volotea is the first of three airlines starting operations to and from Malta International Airport this year.

Volotea promises good service at low cost to 70 European destinations. Launched just four years ago, Volotea is the brainchild of Carlos Muñoz and Lázaro Ros and operates from its bases in Spain, Italy, and France.

“We are delighted to welcome our first new airline this year,” said MIA CEO, Alan Borg. “Our growing family of airlines enables us to further develop our route network and secure better connectivity for the Maltese islands. The addition of Volotea enhances Malta’s offering to its second biggest tourism market, Italy.”

Minister for Tourism, Dr Edward Zammit Lewis, was pleased to welcome the arrival of the first new airline for the year 2016, Volotea, at the Malta International Airport (MIA) and gladly noted that the overall prospects and outlook for the tourism industry remain very positive and encouraging. He thanked all stakeholders, particularly MIA, for their drive to develop our country into an even more important hub for tourism and business and re-affirmed that air connectivity was a focal point of Government’s programme with regards to the tourism sector.

On his part MTA CEO Mr Paul Bugeja said that; “The new service introduced by Volotea on the Sicily route is a welcome addition to the already good connection that exists between the two islands. Considering the extensive network that Volotea operates, this is a positive step that will lead to incremental visitor inflows from Sicily and beyond. The fact that this operation is starting so early in the season augurs well as this is in line with our efforts to reduce seasonality.”

The crew and passengers on board the inaugural flight were greeted with flowers and a cake-cutting ceremony. Volotea’s first flight on March 29th will be followed by weekly flights operating every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.