Direct Flights Between Malta and New York to Launch in June

Malta’s Foreign and Tourism Minister Ian Borg announced on Tuesday the launch of direct flights between Malta and New York, set to begin this June. The service, operated by Delta Air Lines, will connect Malta International Airport with New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The airline will initially offer three weekly flights between June and October, using a Boeing 767-300 aircraft. Ticket sales for the new route will open tonight.

Minister Borg described this new service as a breakthrough for Malta, marking the country’s entry into the North American market. This move is expected to strengthen ties with both the United States and Canada, while also enhancing cultural, economic, and people-to-people cooperation. According to Borg, this launch is the result of year-long efforts, including close collaboration between tourism and aviation authorities, Malta International Airport, and the Foreign Ministry. This collaboration included high-level talks in Washington earlier this month.

The Minister emphasized that this new transatlantic route aligns with the National Tourism Strategy 2030 and Malta’s Vision 2050. These plans aim to attract higher value-added tourism, which is in line with the country’s overall tourism goals. In addition, Borg announced that the Malta Tourism Authority will redirect funds from summer music event sponsorships to promote cultural and niche tourism. This includes religious, heritage, military, art, and culinary tourism.

Delta Air Lines, one of the largest U. S. carriers, operates over 4,000 flights daily to 275 destinations in 50 countries. Despite a recent post on the airline’s website, inviting frequent flyers to vote on whether Delta should serve Malta, Ibiza, or Sardinia, the decision to operate the Malta-New York route has been made. The outcome of this poll was expected later this month.

This new direct flight service between Malta and New York is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s tourism industry. It will provide more convenient travel options for tourists from North America and offer a boost to the local economy. With the new route aligning with Malta’s long-term tourism goals, it is an exciting development for the country and its tourism sector.