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Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, has unveiled ambitious plans for the low-cost airline’s growth in Malta, aiming to carry eight million passengers to and from the island within the next decade. This target represents a nearly 100% increase from the current four million passengers Ryanair carries annually on Malta routes. O’Leary firmly believes this growth will greatly benefit the economy, keeping hotels and tourist facilities operating year-round, and creating new job opportunities.
Despite concerns about overtourism, O’Leary argues that Malta can handle more visitors if they are evenly distributed throughout the year and infrastructure improvements are made. Ryanair’s expansion plans align with Malta’s record-breaking tourism year in 2024. The airline currently operates seven aircraft from Malta, with intentions to base five to seven additional aircraft on the island, leveraging its strategic location.
Ryanair’s growth strategy focuses on increasing tourism during shoulder and off-peak periods, capitalizing on Malta’s winter sun appeal. The airline expects to carry 4.4 million passengers to and from Malta this year, up 24% from 3.3 million last year. New routes to Rome Fiumicino, Katowice, and Paris Beauvais have been added to the winter schedule, with extra flights on 19 existing routes, including Athens, Catania, Edinburgh, and Zagreb. Additionally, Ryanair is considering Morocco as a new potential route.
O’Leary dismisses concerns about saturation, citing Malta’s tourism stress during peak summer months. However, he acknowledges the need for improved infrastructure to accommodate growth, including more hospitals and schools. Tourism accounts for a significant percentage of Malta’s GDP, and investing in infrastructure will create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Regarding competition with national carrier KM Malta Airlines, O’Leary views Ryanair as a complementary operator, serving different markets. Ryanair focuses on low-fare routes, while KM Malta Airlines covers more expensive destinations. O’Leary believes both airlines can coexist, promoting competition and growth. He refrains from commenting on KM Malta Airlines’ potential privatization but emphasizes the importance of competition.
Ryanair dominates the low-cost market, accounting for 15-20% of the European aviation market. With its expansion plans, Ryanair is poised to further solidify its position, bringing more tourists and economic benefits to Malta. As O’Leary notes, “We want to see KM survive and prosper, but it’s challenging for them in an era when people are increasingly looking for low-fare air travel.” Ryanair’s commitment to passenger comfort and low fares remains unwavering, with plans to introduce larger aircraft to reduce costs and increase capacity.
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