Air Malta has said that one of its charter flights, KM7446, from Malta to Lourdes encountered a bird strike on landing in Lourdes in the early hours of 18th July, the airline said.

"All passengers were disembarked safely. Subsequently, KM7447 from Lourdes to Malta due to depart on 18th July at 1.40am local time has been delayed. The necessary inspections are currently being carried out by the technical support team prior to the aircraft departing Lourdes. Due to this event and the newly introduced extra flights between Malta and Palermo to assist passengers affected by the Catania Airport incident, Air Malta expects disruption to its flight schedules for the remainder of today."

"Air Malta would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by this event, outside of our control, and always places utmost priority on the safety of passengers and crew"