Malta targets five direct long-haul flights by 2033 

Malta plans to establish direct connections to five long-haul destinations by 2033, with this clear target set in the newly-launched Vision 2050 strategy. 

While the strategy doesn’t specify the exact countries, it indicates that the routes will target markets in North America, the Middle East and Asia. 

Qatar Airways launched long-haul flights between Malta and Qatar last year, while Delta Air Lines is set to launch flights between Malta and New York this June. Talks have also commenced with China Eastern Airlines over the possibility of a direct flight between Malta and Shanghai.

This means that Malta must open three more long-haul flights over the next seven years to reach its targets. 

The Vision 2050 document said that increasing long-haul air routes supports economic growth, international business engagement, and tourism diversification. 

“By targeting high-value destinations, the measure maximises the strategic impact of connectivity improvements while aligning with Malta’s long-term aviation and economic development objectives,” it said.