The site plan of the Gozo area where the government is proposing a regional airport was tabled in parliament on Tuesday.

A public consultation is to take place to get feedback on the proposal.

In reply to a parliamentary question by PN MP Chris Said, Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri said that the heliport in Xewkija has not been operating since 2008, apart from the occasional hospital airlifts.

Engaged technical experts were asked not to include the use of additional land used for agricultural purposes; ensure that the plan accommodates aeroplanes that can carry a maximum of 11 passengers and keep in mind the environmental impact of the said airport.

Although Clint Camilleri did not publish the designs he was referring to in parliament, he said they would be published in the coming weeks by the Gozo Development Authority.

A site plan of the proposed area for the regional airport exhibits the airstrip extending more than the perimeter of the current heliport. The Minister explained how the runaway has to be developed to make space for fixed-wing aircraft.

Camilleri emphasised how such a future runaway that accommodates fixed-wing aircraft will be economically beneficial for Gozo.