Cheap Air Malta Flights

Air Malta, founded in 1973 and operating its first flight on April 1, 1974, was Malta's national airline. Based at Malta International Airport in Luqa, Air Malta operated flights to 37 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Its fleet consisted of modern Airbus A320-200 and A320neo aircraft. Despite Malta's small geographical size, Air Malta established itself as a significant carrier globally, particularly known for its convenient connections within Europe and its commitment to providing a comfortable travel experience. Additionally, the airline played a vital role in promoting Maltese culture internationally.

However, Air Malta ceased operations on March 31, 2024. It was replaced by KM Malta Airlines, which began operations on April 1, 2024. KM Malta Airlines has taken over most of Air Malta's fleet and routes, maintaining regular flights to major European cities such as Amsterdam, London, Paris, Rome, Munich, and Madrid. The new airline aims to build a more sustainable business model with a leaner structure while continuing to uphold Malta's aviation legacy. KM Malta Airlines currently operates with approximately 390 employees and focuses on retaining Air Malta's loyal customer base.

Air Malta provides convenient check-in options for its passengers. Online check-in is available 24 hours to 2 hours before the scheduled departure time. Passengers can access this service via the Air Malta website or mobile app by entering their booking reference and personal information. After completing online check-in, travelers can either print their boarding passes or download them to their mobile devices. This process also allows for seat selection, making the airport experience faster and more streamlined.

For those preferring in-person services, airport check-in counters open approximately 2 to 3 hours before departure and close 45 minutes prior to the flight's scheduled time. At select airports, self-service kiosks are also available, enabling passengers to check in, choose their seats, and print boarding passes. Air Malta advises passengers to arrive at the airport early to complete security procedures and ensure a smooth boarding process, especially during peak travel times.

Hand Luggage

Passengers are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage with maximum dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm and a weight limit of 10 kg. Additionally, a small personal item measuring up to 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm and weighing up to 2 kg is permitted in the cabin. This could include a handbag, laptop bag, or a small backpack. Items exceeding the hand luggage limits will be checked into the hold for an additional fee.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage allowances depend on the ticket type:

• Go Light: No checked baggage allowance.
• Go Smart: One piece up to 23 kg.
• Go Flex: One piece up to 23 kg.
• Just Business: One piece up to 32 kg.
• Smart Business: Two pieces, each up to 32 kg.
• Business Freedom: Two pieces, each up to 32 kg.

The total dimensions of each piece (length + width + height) must not exceed 158 cm, and no individual bag should weigh more than 32 kg. Bags exceeding these limits may incur additional fees or may not be accepted.

Special Luggage

Special items such as sports equipment and musical instruments can be transported under specific conditions:

• Sports Equipment: Items up to 32 kg must be properly packed in a suitable case and booked in advance. A fee of 40 EUR per item applies for online reservations.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (e.g., violin, flute) can be carried in the cabin, provided they comply with hand luggage limits. Larger instruments must be packed in a proper case and transported in the cargo hold, with prior notification.

Air Malta offers passengers the flexibility to select their preferred seats during the booking process or up to 24 hours before departure. For Business Class fares such as Business Value, Business Plus, and Business Flex, seat selection is complimentary at the time of booking. However, Business Basic fare holders may incur a €10 fee when choosing premium seats in Row 1.

Economy Class passengers can select seats for a fee, which varies depending on the fare type and seat location. For instance, regular seats may cost €6, while emergency exit seats with extra legroom are priced at €12. It's important to note that seat availability cannot be guaranteed if selection is delayed until check-in. Therefore, passengers are encouraged to secure their preferred seating early to ensure a comfortable journey.

Air Malta's Flypass program rewards regular travelers. It lets passengers earn SkyBux on flights and other purchases. SkyBux are worth €0.01 each when used, and their value changes based on membership level and fare family.

Members earn SkyBux at different rates:

• Economy Basic: 1.50% to 1.71%
• Economy Value: 2% to 2.28%
• Economy Plus: 3% to 3.42%
• Economy Flex: 4.50% to 5.13%
• Business Basic: 5.25% to 5.99%
• Business Value: 5.75% to 6.56%
• Business Plus: 6.75% to 7.70%
• Business Flex: 8.25% to 9.41%

Buying extras earns a flat 2% in SkyBux. To get "Permanent" status, members need 10,000 KMiles in a year. The program also works with credit cards and retailers, making it easier to earn.

HSBC Premier cardholders get 1 KMile for every €1 spent. Banif Gold Card holders earn the same for purchases and cash advances. These partnerships add to the program's value for frequent flyers.

Flypass members can also earn miles through partnerships. Sixt car rentals give 500 KMiles per transaction. At Carrefour, shoppers earn GS loyalty points that can be turned into KMiles at a 2:1 ratio. These options make Air Malta's loyalty program more rewarding for frequent travelers.

Air Malta provides a variety of food and beverage options on board, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. On short-haul flights, passengers can enjoy light snacks and beverages, including tea, coffee, soft drinks, and juices. For longer flights, the airline offers more extensive meal options, which include sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Alcoholic beverages, such as wine and beer, are also available for purchase on most flights.

Passengers traveling in Business Class benefit from complimentary meals featuring Maltese-inspired cuisine. These meals are carefully prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Malta. Special meal requests, including vegetarian, diabetic, or gluten-free options, can be made in advance when booking tickets or up to 48 hours before departure. This ensures a comfortable and satisfying dining experience for all passengers.

Air Malta offers various in-flight entertainment options for its passengers. On its new Airbus A320neo aircraft, the airline utilizes the Blueview digital platform provided by Bluebox Aviation Systems. This system allows passengers to access entertainment content, interactive maps, and games through a browser-based portal on their personal electronic devices. The service is designed to enhance the overall in-flight experience.

Additionally, Air Malta offers a complimentary in-flight magazine called "Sky Life." This magazine, available in every seat pocket, provides dynamic content on topics such as travel, entertainment, business, and lifestyle. Furthermore, both Business and Economy Class passengers are provided with local newspapers. These services aim to ensure a more enjoyable and relaxing experience during the flight.

Air Malta offers different ways to travel with pets. You can bring pets in the cabin, as checked baggage, or through cargo services. For pets in the cabin, they and their carrier must not weigh over 10 kg. The carrier size is limited to 40 x 34 x 18 cm.

Pets as checked baggage can weigh up to 32 kg.

When planning to transport your pet on Air Malta, keep these important points in mind:

• Pets must be at least 15 weeks old and weaned
• Book your pet's travel at least 5 working days before departure
• Obtain an EU Pet Passport and a health certificate issued within 72 hours of travel
• In-cabin pet fee is €85 per carrier, per way
• Checked baggage fees vary based on weight, ranging from €70 to €150 per container, per way

Air Malta has restrictions on pet travel to certain destinations. Pets can't fly in-cabin to the UK, and Gatwick doesn't allow pet departures to Malta. There are also temperature restrictions for cargo hold transport to ensure pets travel safely.

Air Malta airport lounges are a cozy retreat for business class travelers and some others. The La Valette Club at Malta International Airport is the main lounge. It's open all day and night, letting guests relax for up to three hours before their flight.

The lounge has a self-service buffet with Maltese dishes and drinks, including the island's famous red wine. Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are comfy seats to take a break from the airport's noise. For a private experience, the La Valette VIP terminal welcomes one group at a time.

Not just Air Malta's premium passengers can use the lounges. Priority Pass members and business class travelers from airlines like British Airways and Emirates also get access. Economy passengers can buy a one-time pass for a luxury experience. Keep in mind, these lounges can get crowded, especially during busy times. So, it's best to arrive early to enjoy your time before flying.