Last month, the Malta International Airport welcomed over 600,000 passengers through its terminals, marking a significant 30% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge can largely be attributed to heightened travel activity during the Easter holidays, along with the commencement of a cruise and fly service operated by P&O Cruises.

The airport experienced its peak passenger traffic on Maundy Thursday, with a staggering 27,250 individuals passing through its facilities. Throughout March, a total of 633,826 travellers were facilitated, contributing to a first-quarter total of 1,573,712 passenger movements.

According to a statement from MIA, this impressive performance was driven by a notable 24.6% increase in flight seat capacity to and from Malta. Moreover, March witnessed the highest-ever recorded seat load factor of 87.

Aircraft movements also saw a substantial uptick, with a 20.5% increase in take-offs and landings, totalling 4,031 operations for the month. Italy, the UK, and Germany maintained their positions as the top three markets, collectively accounting for half of the airport’s traffic.

Furthermore, Poland experienced remarkable growth, soaring by 80.6% compared to 2023, and overtaking the French market to become Malta’s fourth most popular destination.

March also marked the end of Air Malta’s operation.  Following its five-decade tenure as the national flag carrier, Air Malta wrapped up its services with the last flight touching down in the early hours of 31 March.

On the same day, KM Malta Airlines took over, launching its operations with its first flight departing thereafter.

Moreover, during the same month, Universal Air also started operations from the airport, adding to the connectivity and boosting the airport’s growth.