The only airport in the country of Malta, Malta International Airport is a hub for Ryanair and Air Malta. It’s quiet in winter, with flights arriving from a handful of major European cities. Passengers numbers increase dramatically during the summer holiday months, with seasonal charters bringing tourists from across Europe. Located five kilometres outside Valletta, the spacious airport is connected to the different Maltese islands by various local boat services.
Malta International Airport has a single terminal, which can expand in size as flight routes increase during the summer. Most flights arrive from Schengen countries, for which there are no immigration requirements. ATMs are located within the terminal while a small collection of shops and cafes keep passengers entertained.
Many resorts and travel agencies offer airport shuttle services as part of holiday packages. Representatives stand at the arrivals gate, and the buses leave from a large rank just outside the terminal. Taxis are readily available here with official white airport taxis found waiting on the road outside the terminal. Car rental agencies can be found around the luggage carousel and immediately after customs. Various public buses stop at the airport, taking passengers to Valletta and St. Julian. One of these buses continues to the ferry port for onward travel to Malta’s other islands.
Malta International Airport moved to its current location in 1992, when flights were moved from the dilapidated terminal building at Luqa. A new runway was installed, and Malta International continues to grow in popularity with low-cost airlines.