The terminal halls at Malta International Airport are decked with more than just boughs of holly, ready to give a festive welcome to around 123,000 passengers between 22 and 31 December, MIA said in a statement.
Activity during this stretch is expected to peak on 23 and 30 of December, with each one of these days forecast to see around 14,000 passengers as many head homeward for Christmas and the New Year.
People who will be travelling during this period are advised to be at the terminal at least two hours before their flight’s scheduled departure so as to have ample time to check in, go through security screening, and enjoy the free treats, including some local specialities, available from the airport’s Christmas cart.
The airport team has also drawn up a calendar of holiday-themed activities and games, aimed at keeping young globetrotters in good spirits whilst their parents have a browse through the shops. Gifts purchased at any one of the outlets at departures can be wrapped expertly, and for free, at the station set up at Gate 3.
In order to enjoy a smoother journey and avoid disappointment, departing passengers are reminded that presents carried in the hand luggage should be left unwrapped as security officers may need to carry out a closer inspection of certain items. Moreover, presents such as toy guns and other imitation weapons will be confiscated if carried in the hand luggage. While solid foods can be carried as hand-luggage items, runny foodstuffs such as sauces, pâtés, and jams are considered to be liquids and have to comply with the 100ml regulation.
Locals who have no plans of jetting off for the holidays are still invited to drop by the terminal for a spot of shopping and dining. The airport’s Christmas Kids’ Club, which is an 11-day programme of free activities at the airport food court, kicks off on the 22nd of December.