Air Malta

Air Malta (currently operating as KM Malta Airlines) serves as the national flag carrier of the Maltese Islands, connecting the archipelago to key cities across Europe and the Mediterranean. As the primary airline for the country, it plays a vital role in supporting local tourism and business sectors by providing reliable, full-service flight connections. While the carrier underwent a major restructuring in 2024 to ensure long-term viability, it continues to uphold a legacy of hospitality that dates back to its original founding in 1974, now utilizing a modern and efficient fleet.

Headquartered in Luqa, adjacent to its operational base at the international airport, the airline focuses on a convenient schedule that allows travelers to maximize their time on the islands. With a commitment to punctuality and service, the carrier offers a seamless link to major European hubs, remaining the preferred choice for visitors seeking a direct and comfortable journey to the heart of the Mediterranean.

The airline operates a streamlined network focusing on major European capitals and primary airports rather than secondary hubs. Travelers can fly directly to Valletta from key metropolitan areas such as Istanbul, Munich, London, and Rome. The network is designed to support both leisure and business travel, with frequent connections to Frankfurt am Main, Paris, and Zurich. Additionally, the carrier provides important links to Brussels, Vienna, Amsterdam, and Milan, ensuring the islands remain easily accessible from across the continent.

Modern Fleet and Service
The airline operates a unified fleet of Airbus A320neo aircraft. These modern planes are significantly quieter and more fuel-efficient than their predecessors, reducing CO2 emissions per passenger. Onboard, guests experience a full-service product which typically includes complimentary water and a variety of purchase-on-board options. The cabin configuration is designed to offer enhanced comfort with modern seating, catering to the needs of both Economy and Business Class travelers.

Commitment to Safety and Quality
Operating under strict European aviation safety standards, the airline maintains a strong safety record. Its mission centers on being the airline of the Maltese Islands, reflecting the warmth and culture of the country in its service. By focusing on commercially viable routes and operational efficiency, the carrier ensures sustainable, year-round connectivity for islanders and tourists alike.

Contacting KM Malta Airlines from the United Arab Emirates

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates planning a journey with KM Malta Airlines (the successor to Air Malta), it is important to note that the airline does not currently operate direct flights to the UAE or maintain a physical local office in the region. Support for bookings and inquiries is primarily handled through their international customer service channels and digital platforms. Residents in the UAE should use the international contact details provided below, keeping in mind that international calling rates may apply.

Official Website

The most efficient way to manage bookings, check flight schedules, and access support is through the airline's official website, which offers a comprehensive "Contact Us" section and online chat features.

• Official Website: www.kmmaltairlines.com

Contact Information

Since there is no dedicated branch in the United Arab Emirates, travelers should direct their queries to the airline's headquarters in Malta.

• International Customer Service: +356 2135 6000 (Main Support Line)
• Ticket Booking: +356 2135 6000 (Available for international reservations)
• Email Inquiries: It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for general inquiries. For loyalty program questions, you may contact kmrewards@kmmaltairlines.com.
• Online Management: Passengers can manage bookings and check-in via the "Book & Manage" section on the official website.

Social Media

For quick updates and alternative support, you can reach out to the airline via their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: KM Malta Airlines
• X (Twitter): @KMMaltaAirlines
• Instagram: @kmmaltairlines

Office Locations

United Arab Emirates Office
Currently, there is no local sales office or airport desk for KM Malta Airlines in the UAE. All administrative and operational matters are handled from the headquarters.

Headquarters (Malta)
Skyparks Business Centre, Level 2
Malta International Airport
Luqa, LQA 4000
Malta

Customer Support Hours

The international customer support center typically operates daily. It is advisable to check the official website for the most current operating hours, as they may vary during public holidays. Travelers calling from the UAE should account for the time difference (Malta is generally 2 to 3 hours behind the UAE, depending on daylight saving time).

Baggage Allowance & Policies

Traveling with Air Malta (operating as KM Malta Airlines) requires a clear understanding of the baggage rules to ensure a smooth journey. The airline has structured its baggage policy to offer flexibility based on the fare class purchased, allowing passengers to pay only for what they need. Whether you are flying light for a weekend getaway or packing heavy for an extended stay, knowing the specific allowances for your ticket type is essential to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage

The cabin baggage allowance depends strictly on the fare bundle selected during booking. All passengers are entitled to bring at least one small personal item on board, but larger cabin bags are reserved for higher fare tiers or must be purchased as a "Priority" add-on.

• Small Personal Bag: Included with all fares (Economy Basic, Value, Plus, Flex, and Business). This bag must fit under the seat in front of you.
  • Maximum dimensions: 40 x 34 x 18 cm.
  • Maximum weight: Typically up to 2 kg.
• Cabin Baggage (10 kg): This larger bag goes in the overhead locker. It is not included in Economy Basic or Economy Value fares unless purchased separately. It is typically included in Economy Plus, Flex, and Business Class.
  • Maximum dimensions: 55 x 40 x 25 cm.
  • Maximum weight: 10 kg.

It is important to strictly adhere to these dimensions. If your carry-on exceeds the size or weight limits, it will likely be tagged and placed in the cargo hold, incurring a gate bag fee which is significantly higher than online rates.

Checked Baggage Limits

The airline operates on a strict Piece Concept policy. This means that your baggage allowance is defined by the number of bags (pieces) you are allowed to check in, rather than a total weight limit that can be distributed among multiple items.

Important Distinction: Please distinguish carefully between a 10 kg Cabin Bag (carried with you onto the plane) and a 10 kg Checked Bag (dropped off at the check-in desk). These are separate allowances. For example, the Economy Value fare includes a 10 kg bag to be checked into the hold, but it does not include the large 10 kg cabin bag.

For Business Class passengers, the allowance provides significant flexibility, with higher-tier fares allowing for two separate pieces of heavy luggage. A single piece of checked baggage must never exceed 32 kg due to international health and safety regulations for baggage handlers.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If you plan to carry more than your allotted limit, it is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage allowance online prior to your flight. Since the airline uses a Piece Concept, you will typically be purchasing an extra piece of luggage rather than just extra kilos. Pre-paying for additional bags on the airline's website is considerably cheaper than paying the standard rates at the airport check-in counters.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

The airline welcomes passengers traveling with special equipment, though specific rules and fees apply:

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf bags, diving equipment, bicycles, and surfing gear can be transported. These generally require a separate "Sports Equipment" booking fee. The equipment must be packed securely to prevent damage.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (like a violin) can be brought into the cabin as your carry-on item if they fit within the dimensions. Larger instruments (like a cello) require the purchase of an extra seat in the cabin. Heavy or bulky instruments must be checked into the hold as special baggage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. Always check the latest guidelines before packing.

Restricted in Carry-on:

• Liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers larger than 100 ml (unless placed in a single transparent, re-sealable 1-liter plastic bag).
• Sharp objects (scissors, knives, razor blades).
• Tools and blunt instruments capable of causing injury.

Prohibited Everywhere (Cabin & Hold):

• Explosives, fireworks, and flares.
• Flammable liquids and solids (lighter fuel, paints).
• Corrosives, oxidizers, and toxic substances.
• Loose lithium batteries (must be carried in the cabin, not in checked luggage).

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your journey with Valletta-based flights easier, consider these packing tips:

1. One Bag, One Limit: Remember that your allowance is for a single suitcase (unless flying Business Flex). Do not bring two smaller bags expecting to combine the weight.
2. Check Your Fare: Double-check if your ticket includes a 10 kg bag for the cabin or for the hold. Mistaking one for the other is a common error.
3. Weigh at Home: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure your bag is within the specific weight limit (10 kg, 20 kg, or 32 kg).
4. Label Everything: Place ID tags with your name and phone number on the inside and outside of your bags.

Pet Travel Policy

Air Malta (operating as KM Malta Airlines) recognizes that pets are an important part of the family and strives to make traveling with them as comfortable as possible. Whether you are relocating or taking a holiday in the Mediterranean, the airline offers several options to transport cats and dogs safely to and from Valletta. It is essential to book pet travel in advance, as space on each aircraft is strictly limited.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can travel with you in the cabin, provided they remain in their carrier throughout the flight. This option is ideal for smaller dogs and cats.

• Carrier Dimensions: The soft-sided carrier must not exceed 40 x 34 x 18 cm to fit under the seat.
• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 10 kg.
• Allowed Pets: Only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin.
• Passenger Limit: Typically, one pet carrier is allowed per passenger.
• Placement: The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you during taxi, take-off, and landing.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that are too large for the cabin but fall within standard baggage limits can travel in the aircraft's hold. The hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure safety.

• Container Requirements: Pets must travel in a rigid, IATA-compliant travel crate with secure locking mechanisms and adequate ventilation.
• Size and Weight: This option is for pets exceeding 10 kg but generally under 32 kg (including crate).
• Comfort: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Temperature Restrictions: Travel may be restricted during periods of extreme heat or cold at the departure or arrival airport.

As Cargo (Manifested Freight)

Some journeys or animal types require transport through the dedicated cargo department rather than as passenger baggage.

• When Required: This is mandatory for very large animals, flights into the United Kingdom (e.g., London), or when the owner is not traveling on the same flight.
• Special Requirements: Requires distinct airway bill documentation and handling by freight agents.
• Booking Procedure: Must be arranged through the airline’s cargo department or a specialized pet shipping agent well in advance.

Required Documentation

To avoid delays or refusal of carriage, ensure all paperwork is in order before arriving at the airport:

• Pet Passport: A valid EU Pet Passport for travel within Europe.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate confirming the animal is fit for travel (usually issued within a few days of the flight).
• Microchip: The animal must be microchipped for identification.
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid anti-rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel).
• Parasite Treatment: Tapeworm treatment is often required for entry into Malta, Ireland, or the UK.

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged per leg of the journey and are subject to change based on the route and destination.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €70 to €100 per flight segment.
• Cargo Hold (AVIH) Fee: Approximately €90 – €160, depending on the size of the crate and weight.
• Cargo Freight: Prices vary significantly based on weight and volume; quotes must be obtained from the cargo department.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet beforehand helps reduce stress and ensures a smoother journey for everyone:

• Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in the travel carrier days or weeks before the flight to get used to it.
• Empty Stomach: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent airsickness.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is well-hydrated, and for hold travel, attach a water funnel or frozen water dish to the crate door.
• Absorbent Bedding: Line the carrier with absorbent mats; loose newspapers or straw are generally not permitted.

Restrictions

For the safety of the animals and passengers, strict exclusions apply:

• Prohibited Breeds: Aggressive dog breeds are generally banned from travel.
• Snub-nosed Animals: Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) may be restricted from the cargo hold due to breathing difficulties at high altitudes.
• Age Limits: Puppies and kittens generally must be at least 15 weeks old (12 weeks for vaccine + 21 days wait).
• Service Animals: Certified guide dogs travel free of charge in the cabin but require prior notification.

Important: Pet travel regulations are complex and subject to change. Always contact the airline's support team directly at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm availability and current requirements.

KM Rewards Loyalty Program

KM Rewards is the official loyalty program of the newly restructured national airline, KM Malta Airlines. Designed to offer a straightforward and transparent experience, the program moves away from traditional distance-based miles and instead rewards passengers based on their spending. Travelers earn SkyBux (the program's reward currency) and Status Points on every flight ticket and ancillary purchase, making it easier to unlock benefits regardless of the destination.

Membership Tiers

The program features four distinct tiers, with advancement based on the number of Status Points earned within a 12-month period. Moving up the ranks unlocks increasingly valuable privileges for your journey through Valletta.

• Member: The entry-level tier upon joining. Members start earning SkyBux and Status Points immediately on all eligible spend.
• Traveller: The first elite level. Benefits include a 4% SkyBux bonus on earnings and special annual bonus credits for retaining the status.
• Explorer: A mid-tier level designed for frequent flyers. Members enjoy Priority Check-in at the airport and an 8% SkyBux bonus on purchases.
• Pioneer: The top-tier elite status. Members receive the highest level of recognition, including Priority Boarding, complimentary Lounge Access, and a 14% SkyBux bonus.

Earning SkyBux and Points

Unlike legacy programs that calculate earnings based on miles flown, KM Rewards is revenue-based. This ensures that every euro spent contributes directly to your rewards balance.

• Flights & Ancillaries: You earn approximately 2.5 Status Points for every €1 spent on base fares, baggage fees, and seat selection.
• SkyBux Accumulation: SkyBux are earned simultaneously with Status Points. The amount earned increases depending on your membership tier (up to 14% bonus for Pioneers).
• Partner Activity: While the program is currently focused on airline spend, future expansions aim to include earnings from travel partners.
• Retroactive Claims: If you forget to add your membership number during booking, you can often claim points for flights taken within a recent window after joining.

Redeeming SkyBux

The redemption process is designed for flexibility, operating similarly to a cashback system rather than a fixed award chart.

• Flight Payments: SkyBux can be used to pay for any available seat on any flight, with no blackout dates.
• Partial Payment: You can combine SkyBux with cash to pay for your ticket, allowing you to use your balance even if you don't have enough for a full fare.
• Ancillary Upgrades: Use your rewards to purchase extra baggage, priority seating, or other travel extras during the booking process.
• Transparency: 1 SkyBux is roughly equivalent to €0.01 (one cent) in value, making it easy to calculate your savings.

Partnerships and Connectivity

KM Malta Airlines does not currently belong to a global airline alliance (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam). However, it maintains strong bilateral agreements to ensure connectivity across Europe.

• Codeshare Partners: The airline works closely with major carriers like Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa to offer seamless connections.
• Status Match: Occasionally, KM Rewards offers "Status Match" campaigns for holders of elite status with other European legacy carriers.

How to Join

Joining KM Rewards is free and can be done entirely online.

• Registration: Visit the official airline website or download the KM Malta Airlines mobile app to create an account.
• Instant Access: Your digital membership card is available immediately upon registration.
• Link Your Bookings: Always ensure your KM Rewards number is entered at the time of booking or check-in to automatically credit your account.

Service Classes & Onboard Experience

Flying with Air Malta (operating as KM Malta Airlines) offers a modern and comfortable experience aboard their unified fleet of Airbus A320neo aircraft. Whether traveling for business or leisure, the airline provides distinct service classes designed to tailor the journey to your specific needs, ranging from budget-friendly options to a premium full-service experience.

Economy Class

The Economy cabin is designed to offer flexibility and value. Passengers can choose from several fare structures—Basic, Value, Plus, and Flex—allowing them to pay only for the services they require, such as checked baggage or reservation changes. Regardless of the fare type, all Economy passengers enjoy the same high standard of onboard safety and hospitality.

• Seat Comfort: The cabin features modern, ergonomic leather seats arranged in a 3-3 configuration. The slimline design maximizes personal space and knee room.
• Power & Connectivity: Most aircraft in the fleet are equipped with USB charging ports at every seat, allowing passengers to keep their mobile devices powered throughout the flight.
• Service: A selection of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages is available for purchase from the "Sky Bar" menu.

Business Class

For travelers seeking enhanced comfort and privacy, Business Class offers a superior level of service from the moment of check-in to arrival. This class is ideal for those connecting through Valletta for important meetings or a luxury holiday.

• Exclusive Seating: While the cabin layout remains 3-3, the middle seat is kept blocked to guarantee extra personal space and privacy. This ensures a window or aisle seat for every passenger.
• Priority Perks: Business Class guests benefit from dedicated check-in counters, fast-track security at select airports, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges where available.
• Complimentary Dining: Unlike Economy, Business Class includes a complimentary premium meal service featuring hot or cold dishes (depending on flight duration) accompanied by a selection of wines, soft drinks, and coffee.

In-Flight Dining

The airline creates a distinct dining experience based on the cabin class. The focus is on freshness and quality, often incorporating Maltese flavors to introduce passengers to the local cuisine before they even land.

• Economy (Buy-on-Board): The "Sky Bar" service offers a variety of items for purchase. The menu typically includes savory baguettes, sweet treats, savory snacks, and a wide range of hot and cold beverages, including local beer and wine. Payment is generally cashless (credit card only).
• Business (Inclusive): Passengers receive a specially curated meal tray. On longer flights to destinations like London or Paris, a hot meal is usually served. On shorter hops, a gourmet cold snack or light meal is provided.

Entertainment

As with most European short-haul carriers, the aircraft do not feature seatback screens. Instead, the airline encourages a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) culture.

• Digital Experience: Passengers should download movies, music, or books onto their tablets or smartphones prior to departure.
• In-Flight Magazine: A digital or physical copy of the airline's magazine, Il-Bizzilla, is often available, featuring travel guides, lifestyle articles, and information about the Maltese Islands.

Special Assistance and Family Services

The airline is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering specialized support for those who need extra help.

• Families with Children: Infants (under 2 years) can travel on a parent's lap for a reduced fee. For older children, the airline offers an Unaccompanied Minor service for young travelers aged between 7 and 14 years flying alone, ensuring they are escorted by staff from check-in to the handover at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM): Comprehensive assistance is available for passengers with disabilities. This includes wheelchair assistance at the airport and support boarding the aircraft. Requests for such services must be made at least 48 hours before the flight to ensure resources are allocated.
• Medical Cases: Passengers with specific medical conditions or those requiring supplementary oxygen should contact the airline's medical desk in advance to obtain clearance and arrange necessary equipment.

Top Destinations & Flight Routes

Air Malta (operating as KM Malta Airlines) maintains a focused route network centered around its strategic hub in Valletta. The airline primarily connects the Maltese archipelago with major European capitals and key commercial centers, providing essential links for both tourism and business. While it does not fly directly to the United Arab Emirates, its extensive European coverage offers convenient onward connections for international travelers.

To secure the best fares with Air Malta, travelers are advised to book their tickets well in advance. Generally, reserving your flight at least 6 to 8 weeks prior to departure can result in significant savings, particularly for popular routes connecting the hub in Valletta with major European destinations like London and Rome. Be sure to monitor the airline's official website for seasonal promotions and sign up for their newsletter to receive alerts about special deals and limited-time offers.

Streamline your airport experience by taking advantage of the online check-in service. This feature typically becomes available 24 hours before your scheduled flight, allowing you to confirm your presence and download your boarding pass to your mobile device. This is especially useful for busy connections to cities such as Munich or Paris, helping you avoid long queues at the check-in counters.

For a more comfortable journey, consider selecting your seat during the booking process or as soon as online check-in opens. Early selection increases your chances of securing a preferred window or aisle seat, which can make flights to destinations like Istanbul or Zurich much more enjoyable. The airline's mobile app is another handy tool, offering a centralized platform to manage your booking, view flight status updates, and access your digital boarding pass with ease.

Finally, it is always recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance when planning your trip. Whether you are traveling for business to Brussels or for a vacation in Vienna, insurance provides essential protection against unexpected events. Combined with Air Malta's reliable service, these preparations ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience across the Mediterranean and beyond.

History and Evolution

Founding and Early Years
The story of the airline began shortly after Malta became a republic, driven by the young nation's need for independent connectivity. Established in 1973, Air Malta officially commenced flight operations on April 1, 1974. Prior to this, the islands relied heavily on foreign carriers for air transport. The launch of a national airline was a significant milestone, symbolizing autonomy and ensuring a dedicated lifeline for the country’s burgeoning tourism industry and its citizens.

In its inaugural year, the carrier operated leased Boeing 720B aircraft, serving key destinations including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Rome, Frankfurt am Main, Paris, and Tripoli. This early network laid the foundation for what would become the primary bridge between the archipelago and the rest of Europe.

Major Milestones and Expansion
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the airline experienced steady growth. It invested in its own aircraft rather than relying on leases, purchasing Boeing 737-200s to modernize its operations. A landmark moment came in 1987 when the airline ordered its first Airbus A320, marking the beginning of a long-term strategic shift toward Airbus technology. By the turn of the millennium, the carrier had firmly established itself as a crucial player in Mediterranean aviation, operating a hub at Valletta that connected passengers to major cities across the continent.

Fleet Evolution
The airline's fleet has undergone a complete transformation over the decades. From the early days of the "noisy" Boeing 720Bs, the carrier transitioned to a more efficient fleet of Boeing 737s and Avro RJ85s for regional routes. In the early 2000s, a strategic decision was made to streamline operations by moving to an all-Airbus fleet. Today, this evolution has culminated in the operation of the Airbus A320neo. These state-of-the-art aircraft are central to the airline's modern identity, offering significantly reduced fuel consumption, lower noise levels, and a wider cabin for enhanced passenger comfort.

Strategic Restructuring and Modern Developments
The aviation landscape faced immense challenges in the 21st century, prompting the airline to undergo several restructuring phases to ensure financial sustainability. Despite these hurdles, the carrier remained committed to its core mission. A historic turning point occurred in March 2024, when the legacy Air Malta ceased operations to be immediately succeeded by KM Malta Airlines. This transition allowed the national carrier to reset its financial base while continuing to fly the Maltese flag without interruption.

Innovation and Route Network
Throughout its history, the airline has adapted its route network to meet changing demand, shifting from charter-heavy operations to scheduled services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Significant route launches have included direct links to major hubs like Munich, Zurich, and Brussels. In recent years, the airline has embraced digital innovation, launching a modern booking platform and a simplified, revenue-based loyalty program, ensuring it remains competitive in a rapidly evolving European market.