Ryanair Holdings has revealed plans to purchase Malta Air, as part of the plans which will see Ryanair grow its Malta-based fleet of 6 B737 aircraft.
This investment in Malta Air will allow Ryanair to grow its already sizeable presence in Malta, and access non-EU markets from Malta.
Completion is planned for the end of June, following which Ryanair Holdings will increase its Malta-based fleet to 10 aircraft within three years and create over 350 jobs
Speaking in Malta, Ryanair CEO, Michael O’Leary said: “Ryanair is pleased to welcome Malta Air to the Ryanair Group of airlines which now includes Buzz (Poland), Lauda (Austria), Malta Air, and Ryanair (Ireland).
"Malta Air will proudly fly the Maltese name and flag to over 60 destinations across Europe and North Africa as we look to grow our Maltese based fleet, routes, traffic and jobs over the next three years.
"Ryanair’s continued partnership with the Malta Tourism Authority will help drive forward the vision of prime minister Muscat and minister Mizzi to grow year round connections to all corners of Europe which will support increased tourism, business and jobs in Malta.
"Ryanair appreciates the expertise of the Maltese Civil Aviation Directorate (CAD) in licencing Malta Air to operate the B737 aircraft and we look forward to working closely with the Maltese authorities over the coming years as we hope to add over 50 more aircraft to the Maltese register.”
Malta minister for tourism Konrad Mizzi added: “The relationship between Ryanair and Malta has evolved into a successful collaboration. We welcome Ryanair’s commitment to operate and grow a fully fledged Malta-based airline which will contribute in a large way to the country’s development.”