Malta's Tourism Minister Konrad Mizzi has confirmed talks about a commercial and strategic cooperation venture between Air Malta (Malta International) and Ryanair (FR, Dublin International) are currently underway.
Speaking at a press conference in Valletta where the Irish budget carrier announced plans to add twelve new routes to its Malta International base next summer, Mizzi said the talks would focus on sales and commercial aspects, the sales of Air Malta's tickets via Ryanair's website, as well as Air Malta's possible participation in Ryanair's "connecting flights" initiative.
"There is very little overlap in the two companies' routes and we believe both airlines could benefit from a closer relationship," Mizzi said. "This is very good news for Malta."
Ryanair launched its connecting flights programme in May this year with Spain's Air Europa (UX, Palma de Mallorca) the launch customer. Under the deal, Air Europa's longhaul services ex-Madrid Barajas are being sold via Ryanair's portal. Eventually, Ryanair customers will be able to connect onto Air Europa long-haul flights through Madrid. As such, Air Malta's participation in the plan would see Ryanair passengers connecting onto the Maaltese carrier's services to African destinations.
Air Malta has been looking for a strategic partner since talks with Alitalia (AZA, Rome Fiumicino) were called off earlier this year.
