March brought Malta International Airport’s (MIA) busiest ever first quarter to a close, during which 1,245,525 passengers walked through the terminal’s doors. Of this total, 487,117 passenger movements were registered in March, marking an increase of two per cent over pre-pandemic figures.

This upward trend has been driven by the release of pent-up demand for air travel, which has also been reflected in high seat load factors (SLF) over the past months. Gaining 2.2 per cent over 2019 levels, the SLF for March stood at 83.5 per cent.

Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Poland were the most popular markets, accounting for 63 per cent of March traffic. Out of these top five markets, the United Kingdom and Germany continued to perform below 2019 levels, while the other three markets registered different levels of growth.

A closer look at Germany’s performance shows that, while passenger numbers to and from this market remained below pre-pandemic levels, an improved SLF of 90 per cent helped it overtake France to rank third. Malta’s connectivity with Germany will be further strengthened this summer through three routes on top of those offered last winter, which are expected to bolster the performance of this market. 

MIA’s newly launched summer flight schedule can be downloaded here.

Related

Kamra tal-Periti calls for public reclamation of Freedom Square on world architecture day

October 7, 2024
by Nicole Zammit

The architectural body highlights the importance of public spaces in fostering community interaction and cultural heritage

Malta’s economic model under the microscope in the latest edition of Business Now Magazine

October 7, 2024
by Helena Grech

This latest edition of Business Now promises a comprehensive look at the businesses and individuals shaping Malta's future

The corporate calendar: What’s on this October?

October 6, 2024
by Anthea Cachia

These events offer executives the chance to network, discuss and maximise business opportunities