Today, Minister for Tourism Edward Zammit Lewis attended the arrival of two seaplanes from Como (Italy) to the Malta Seaplanes rally at the Valletta Grand Harbour.

"The comeback of seaplanes, flying to and from our ports, clearly demonstrates our commitment in cooperation with the Malta Seaplanes Association, to finally re-commence seaplane operations locally, while also actively developing the required range of services around this new niche", said the Tourism Minister.

Two amphibious aircrafts participated in the 3000 Km trial from Como in Northern Italy, to Malta, and upon arrival the aircraft flew over the Grand Harbour, landing mid-point between Pinto Wharf and Senglea Point.  

Minister Zammit Lewis explained the four main objectives within the Government's vision for the aviation industry: "to transform Malta into a more attractive jurisdiction for institutions which are willing to finance operations related to aviation; to attract companies operating in the leasing environment; to ensure the availability of skills to satisfy the current and future demands of the industry, while encouraging young people to join the sector as well as experienced workers to widen their spectrum of knowledge and exposure to new services required by the aviation sector; and to improve the infrastructure required by companies to expand or establish operations in Malta.

The Minister said that the creation of an indigenous aviation sector has only been possible through the coordinated implementation of a long-term strategy requiring the participation of a cross-section of stakeholders, including the public sector, local and foreign investors, technical innovators, academia, and a competent workforce which is constantly learning and adapting.

"It is imperative that the local aviation sector remains steadily on the growth path, while it is becoming an even more important contributor to our economic success, stressed the Minister for Tourism".

The Minister concluded by expressing gratitude to the Malta Seaplane Association, while acknowledging their sterling work, and all the sponsors who made this initiative possible and a success. Dr Zammit Lewis extended his full support for this event to become a mainstay on our already very rich annual calendar of events.

Photos by Mike Camilleri