Aviation History
Air Malta launched in 1974 as the island's flag carrier and built a 50-year operating record with no fatal accidents, growing alongside Malta's tourism industry and EU accession. Mounting financial losses and the European Commission's refusal to approve further state aid forced Air Malta to cease operations on 30 March 2024, and it was immediately replaced the next day by the newly formed, state-owned KM Malta Airlines.
The airline was founded on 31 March 1973 as Malta's flag carrier.
Air Malta commenced flying on 1 April 1974 using two Boeing 720Bs wet-leased from Pakistan International Airlines.
The island's new airport opened, becoming Air Malta's home base and supporting its cargo and passenger growth.
Air Malta took delivery of its first A320neo as part of ongoing fleet renewal.
The European Commission declined to approve a proposed €290 million state aid injection in April 2023, deepening the airline's financial crisis.
After 50 years without a single fatal accident, Air Malta flew its last services on 30 March 2024.
A new state-owned successor, KM Malta Airlines, began operations on 31 March 2024, one day after Air Malta's closure.
Air Malta (1974-2024) · KM Malta Airlines (current flag carrier)
Wikipedia, European Commission state-aid decisions, airline industry press