Air Malta to Order 2 Airbus A321XLRs

Air Malta will be placing an order for two Airbus A321XLRs as part of its five year strategy, the airline's Chief Executive revealed at the CAPA Summit on Sustainability in Malta earlier this week.

One of Air Malta's Airbus A320neos features a special Nickelodeon livery. Photo by Chris de Breun │ AeroNewsX

Earlier this year, Maltese flag carrier Air Malta reported a profit for the first time in over a decade. This was a major breakthrough for the loss-making airline, as it battled to compete against low cost rivals such as Ryanair.

However, the airline has put much focus on its services in Europe. Air Malta is now looking to expand elsewhere, the airline says.

"Air Malta will look to order two A321XLR aircraft to extend its network outside of Europe" - Air Malta Chairman, Dr. Charles Mangion

Back at the start of this year, Air Malta's Chairman revealed that the airline was looking to fly to New York and Toronto with the Airbus A321neo. It is now understood that an two XLR units will be soon be ordered.

"Air Malta's 5 year strategy will see it grow with 2 Airbus aircraft: A320neo and 2 other A321neo XLR to launch intercontinental routes. This will put KM on a higher level of development. The future is challenging yet exciting" - Air Malta Chairman, Dr. Charles Mangion

The airline revealed no further details but said that it would seek to 'reach beyond Europe in the coming future'. Speaking with Forbes in February, Air Malta's Chief Executive Officer, Clifford Chetcuti revealed that the airline hoped to induct up to 11 Airbus A320neos to replace its existing fleet in five years time. During the interview, Chetcuti said that the airline was interested in flying to the Indian subcontinent and US East Coast.

Air Malta's turnaround plan was hugely successful. The carrier was later awarded the 'Turnaround Airline of the Year' title for 2018.

9H-NEO on approach to London Heathrow Airport. Photo by Anselm Ranta │ AeroNewsX

In other news, Air Malta has also been awarded a spot in Heathrow Airport's ‘Fly Quiet and Green’ top 50 ranking. The carrier puts this down to the replacement of its Airbus A320ceo aircraft with the Airbus A320neo on the Malta to London Heathrow sector.

"Air Malta's environmental performance continues to improve following the introduction of the more modern and fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo aircraft," the airline tweeted.

Malta's airline has shifted to a growth strategy something that wasn't present just a couple of years ago. Compared to previous years, Air Malta's growth is unprecedented. It will be interesting to see where the airline decides to go with its Airbus A321XLRs and whether it will be successful.