Air Malta and Ryanair have been in talks and have struck a deal that will see Ryanair and Air Malta codesharing, with Ryanair bringing passengers to Malta from Europea after which they would be transferred to Air Malta for onward travel to African destinations.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, at this morning's political activity celebrating the first 100 days of the legislature, spoke about such deal which would allow people from Europe to travel to Africa and vice versa, using Ryanair and Air Malta.

"We have a vision for Air Malta, and it is a make or break moment for the airline," Muscat said.

He also said that Air Malta that the company will also be purchasing another aircraft. Muscat spoke about Air Malta being the at the forefront as airline of the Mediterranean: "We are opening up a new road for Air Malta's future," he said.

He said 'make or break' talks would be started between Ryanair, the government and other interested parties over Air Malta, which would, in turn, make it a more attractive proposition for linking up with a strategic partner.

Earlier in the day, at a press conference Tourism Minister Konrad Mizzi addressed press conference with Ryanair, which had announced 12 new routes from Malta to Europe, and described this "major investment as a vote of confidence in Malta's Tourism Sector.

He also said also looks forward to planned commercial and strategic collaboration between Ryanair and Air Malta.