Malta International Airport in Brief

Malta International Airport (MLA) is the international gateway to the Maltese islands. Located in Luqa, in the south of Malta, it is often simply called Luqa Airport. Almost every visitor to Malta and Gozo arrives through this single-terminal airport, which connects the islands with cities across Europe and the Mediterranean.

Location and Distance to Valletta

Luqa lies a short distance south-west of Valletta, the capital. By road, Valletta is usually around 15 to 25 minutes away depending on traffic, and the resort areas of Sliema and St Julian's are also within easy reach.

Terminal and Facilities at Malta Airport

All flights use one passenger terminal spread over three floors, linked by escalators, stairs and lifts. The departures area has shops, cafés and restaurants, and there is a lounge for travellers who want a quieter space before boarding. Arrivals is compact, with car rental desks, a transport information office and the taxi rank just outside.

Airlines and Routes at Malta International Airport

The airport is the home base of KM Malta Airlines, Malta's national carrier, and a major base for Ryanair and its Malta-registered subsidiary Malta Air. A wide mix of other European carriers also serve Luqa, many of them adding extra flights during the summer season. Routes focus on Europe, with further links across the Mediterranean. Check the latest schedule for your route.

Getting from Malta Airport to Valletta and Beyond

• Airport Direct buses: Malta Public Transport runs Tallinja Direct (TD) routes from the airport bus terminal. TD4 goes to Valletta, while other TD routes serve Sliema, St Julian's, Buġibba and Ċirkewwa, where ferries leave for Gozo.
• Regular buses: other routes stop at the airport and continue to towns around the island.
• Taxi: the rank is just outside the arrivals hall.
• Car rental: desks are in the arrivals area. Remember that Malta drives on the left.

Exploring Malta from Luqa

Valletta, a walled Baroque capital, is the natural place to start. Mdina, the old hilltop city, sits in the centre of the island, while the Blue Grotto and the fishing village of Marsaxlokk are close to the airport in the south. A ferry ride away, Gozo offers quieter countryside and coastal walks.

Tips for Flying from Malta International Airport

• Summer is the peak season, so expect busier queues and allow extra time at security.
• Buy a bus ticket or tallinja card at the Malta Public Transport office in the arrivals hall, or pay on board.
• If you are heading to Gozo, check ferry times at Ċirkewwa before you land.

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