Malta's sole international gateway serving the Mediterranean island nation.
Opened
1923
Location
Luqa, Malta
Malta International Airport, also known as Luqa Airport, is the only commercial airport in Malta and serves as the primary air hub for the Maltese archipelago. Located near the town of Luqa, approximately 8 kilometres south of Valletta, it handles millions of passengers annually and connects the island to destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
The airport has undergone significant modernisation and expansion over the decades, with its current terminal building offering a range of retail, dining, and passenger services. It plays a critical role in Malta's tourism-driven economy, which relies heavily on air connectivity. The facility is operated by Malta International Airport plc, a publicly listed company.
Originally developed from a Royal Air Force base during World War II, the airport has a historic military heritage. Today it consistently ranks among the busier airports in the Mediterranean region relative to the small size of the country it serves.
Terminals
The airport operates a single integrated passenger terminal with separate departure and arrival halls serving both Schengen and non-Schengen passengers.
Getting to & from
The airport is connected to Valletta and other parts of Malta primarily by public bus services operated by Malta Public Transport, as well as taxis and private transfers; there is no rail link.
Airlines here
Air Malta (the former national carrier), Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, and Lufthansa are among the major airlines operating scheduled services from Malta International Airport.
Notable facts
- ›The airport originated as RAF Luqa, a British Royal Air Force station used extensively during World War II.
- ›Malta International Airport plc is listed on the Malta Stock Exchange.
- ›The airport serves as the primary hub for Air Malta, the country's national airline founded in 1973.
- ›Malta's small geographic size means the airport is within roughly 30 minutes' drive from almost any point on the island.
- ›The airport handled over 7 million passengers in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced traffic.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
