Flying to Malta? Get Ready for Delays
If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful island of Malta, be prepared for potential delays in your flight schedule. Recent data from Eurocontrol, an international air traffic management organization, reveals that Malta has encountered the highest number of inbound flight delays in the European Union (EU) this year. Not only that, but the country also ranks disappointingly for outbound flight punctuality.
Inbound Delays Take the Lead
From the beginning of the year until August 6, only 57 percent of flights arriving in Malta managed to stick to their scheduled arrival times. This unfortunate statistic marks the worst performance among all EU countries. Shockingly, only Moldova has a lower punctuality rate out of the 41 countries surveyed.
Outbound Flights Follow Suit
Departing flights didn’t fare much better, achieving a punctuality score of just under 60 percent. Although this placed Malta in second place for departure punctuality, it’s still significantly below par according to EU standards. France claimed the top spot for outbound flight punctuality, with Israel and Serbia also outpacing Malta’s performance.
A flight is considered punctual by Eurocontrol if it arrives or departs within 15 minutes of its scheduled time.
A Comparative View
In contrast, Finland and Estonia emerge as the stars of the show in terms of flight punctuality within the EU. Finland excels in arrivals, with almost 80 percent of flights arriving on time, while Estonia takes the lead in departures, with nearly 82 percent of flights leaving as planned.
Norway also earns its stripes in this area, securing the top rank for arrivals, with four out of five flights touching down on time. It takes the second spot for departures.
Malta’s Lagging Position
Regrettably, Malta’s arrival punctuality scored the lowest among all EU countries. However, this issue extends beyond the EU rankings. Malta International Airport’s overall performance in this regard is less than stellar, landing it in the 107th spot out of 110 airports.
Challenges and Explanations
According to a spokesperson from Malta International Airport, certain reasons for these delays are beyond their control. Factors like inclement weather, technical difficulties, and industrial strikes are often responsible for disruptions, significantly impacting the overall guest experience.
In July, Raul Medina, Eurocontrol’s director general, highlighted the challenges Europe faced during the summer due to a combination of increased flights and a 20 percent loss of airspace caused by the war in Ukraine. Medina stressed the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders – airports, air traffic controllers, and airlines – to ensure smoother operations.
Air Malta’s Struggles
Air Malta, the national airline, has faced its fair share of delays this year, attributing them to a shortage of available aircraft. Additionally, earlier this year, Malta Air CEO David O’Brien pointed out what he referred to as “misbehavior” by Malta’s air traffic control. He claimed that these practices were causing longer flight times and unnecessary fuel wastage.
O’Brien urged for a return to professionalism and respect within the air traffic control community, emphasizing that being an air traffic controller on an island with a single airport is a privilege that should be upheld.
Conclusion
If you’re flying to Malta, it’s important to be aware of the potential for delays in both inbound and outbound flights. While the island’s beauty is undoubtedly worth the wait, understanding the factors contributing to these delays can help you better navigate your travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Malta experiencing flight delays?
Malta has been facing flight delays due to a combination of factors, including inclement weather, technical issues, industrial action, and increased flights during the summer season.
How punctual are inbound flights to Malta?
According to Eurocontrol data, only 57 percent of inbound flights to Malta have been on time this year.
Which EU countries have the best flight punctuality?
Finland and Estonia lead in flight punctuality within the EU, with high percentages of flights arriving and departing on schedule.
Why has Air Malta experienced delays?
Air Malta has encountered delays due to a shortage of available aircraft, impacting their ability to maintain punctual flight schedules.
How is Malta International Airport addressing the issue?
While acknowledging the impact of delays on passenger experience, Malta International Airport cites external factors such as weather and technical issues as causes beyond their control.
Esther
I am a professional writer with 8 years of experience in this field and I can provide you with the best-written content you can find. Education B.A. - English, George Washington University, United States, Graduated 2011.
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