Malta to consider Ryanair proposal, to ensure growth doesn’t threaten Air Malta

Malta's Government announced it would consider a proposal by Ryanair to increase services at Malta International Airport (Times of Malta, 24-Mar-2011). The government added it will ensure that an increase in Ryanair services does not go against the "general interests of the country … which includes the long-term viability of Air Malta". The government said it "is fully aware of the challenges being faced by the national carrier and remains committed to securing its long-term sustainability". Ryanair recently defended its operations in the island country and stated it is not responsible for ongoing difficulties at national carrier Air Malta. Deputy CEO Michael Cawley stated the LCC plans to launch 17 new routes over the coming years, commencing in 2012, and base a second B737-800 at the airport. The government said it "is fully aware of the challenges being faced by the national carrier and remains committed to securing its long-term sustainability".