We refer Leo Brincat’s contribution entitled Why Labour gives tourism such a high profile, (TMID, 31 January), in particular the paragraph which deals with MIA and the increase in landing charges.

In this regard, it is necessary to reiterate that MIA does not determine its landing and other aviation charges unilaterally. This indeed is a matter which falls under the jurisdiction of the Airport Charges Regulatory Board on which MIA is represented together with representatives of all the other parties involved, which include the Department of Civil Aviation, Air Malta, and representatives of the other airlines operating to Malta.

Moreover, it is equally important to highlight the fact that such charges are not imposed haphazardly, but are calculated on the basis of a set formula which ensures that the annual increase is always less than the inflation rate for the preceding 12 months in accordance with legal notice 299 of 2001.

Considering all the infrastructural developments and maintenance costs constantly in course, the charges in question are necessary for the vital upkeep of our airport.

Rosette Fenech

Head of Communications

Malta International Airport