‘We look forward to continue working on enhancing Malta’s connectivity’ – MTA Deputy CEO

Leslie Vella, Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) CEO and Chief Strategic Development Officer has welcomed the news that Ryanair is launching a direct route between Malta and Shannon Airport, County Clare, Ireland.

“Being an Island, our tourism sector relies heavily on air connectivity. For this reason, the MTA welcomes this announcement which will definitely be enhancing our strongest market, by providing the second connection from Ireland. I am sure that this new service will continue to pave the way for a smooth recovery of one of Malta’s most important sectors. We look forward to continue working on further enhancing Malta’s connectivity in the weeks and months to come,” Mr Vella said.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the MTA said it proudly welcomes the announcement of the new Ryanair route, which was launched on Sunday 27th March. The route is the first ever scheduled Ryanair service to Malta from Shannon Airport and it will operate twice weekly, each Thursday and Sunday, until the 27th October 2022.

The service from Shannon Airport means that passengers will now have two airports in Ireland to depart from – Dublin or Shannon Airport – when planning their visit to Malta.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the inaugural flight, Mary Considine, CEO, Shannon Group said “We are delighted to launch Shannon Airport’s first ever scheduled Ryanair service to Malta and know this will be an exciting new destination for holidaymakers from the west of the country.

“With its warm climate, breath-taking landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Malta will undoubtedly be a very popular destination this summer for sun seekers and those who want to experience its culture.”

Tolene van der Merwe, Director of the Malta Tourism Authority, UK and Ireland, said “We are really excited to have a new route to Malta from Shannon Airport. This route will make it easier than ever before for people in the mid-west of Ireland to visit Malta.

“Being just a 3.5 hour flight from Ireland with Ryanair, Malta has always been a very popular destination for Irish holidaymakers with 53,000 visitors from Ireland in 2019. With the Maltese warm and friendly culture, combined with the thrill of an action-packed or relaxing holiday, there’s every reason to visit the beautiful islands in 2022.”

Ryanair last week launched a number of new routes. Find out more here.