Prime Minister Robert Abela has officially launched the East Expansion Project at the Malta International Airport, describing it as a key investment in quality, resilience and long-term infrastructure, as works are ongoing on the airport's largest expansion since privatisation.

Set for completion by 2028, the East Expansion Project at MIA is being pitched as a transformation of the airport experience, combining increased space, improved functionality and a stronger sense of Maltese identity.

In an interview with The Malta Independent on Sunday yesterday, MIA CEO Alan Borg described the project as challenging, highlighting that while the works take place, the airport still handles 32,000 passengers per day on average during the summer months, and 22,000 passengers on average during winter.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, Alan Borg said the project reflects a broader vision for the type of destination Malta wants to be and the kind of visitors it aims to attract.

"At MIA we believe we should not simply keep pace with Malta's evolution, but help shape it," Borg said, adding that the expansion represents a direct investment in that belief.

He said the project is designed to deliver higher standards, more space and better facilities, while continuing to connect the Maltese islands with the rest of the world.

Borg said it was an honour to have the Prime Minister present for the launch of what he described as the airport's largest investment since privatisation.

He explained that the project is not simply about attracting more passengers or increasing capacity, but about improving the quality of services offered throughout the airport experience.

The expansion will introduce 32 new check-in desks - doubling the current number, expand baggage-handling facilities, add five new departure gates, and increase the terminal footprint by 6,000 square metres.

The project will also enhance route connectivity and improve the overall guest experience from arrival through departure, Borg said.

He said that a sense of place is central to the airport experience, noting that authenticity is key to service quality.

The expanded terminal will showcase Maltese identity while welcoming more natural light and supporting environmental goals through greener design and the introduction of green spaces, Borg said.

"This is a project of significant scale being undertaken at Malta's only airport," Borg said, noting that challenges included the need for skills, teamwork and coordination.

He said the airport is confident these challenges will be met, with the project set to redefine the airport experience by 2028.

Prime Minister Abela said he frequently visits the airport and has witnessed first-hand the ongoing transformation enabled by robust private investment backed by government support.

He said he could vouch that works on the East Expansion Project are progressing very well.

Following the inauguration of the Priority Guest Terminal last summer, Abela said the East Expansion reflects what can be achieved when public and private entities work together with a shared sense of service.

"The airport is often the first and last impression visitors have of Malta, and it plays a central role in how we present ourselves to the world," Abela said.

He explained that the East Expansion Project forms part of a wider focus on quality and resilience, stressing that it is not simply about expanding physical space but about increasing efficiency and functionality, while respecting Malta's heritage and caring for the environment.

Abela said the project highlights the importance of innovation and excellence through collaboration between the public and private sectors.

He added that the expansion aligns with Vision 2050, the government's long-term national framework, which is set to be officially announced in the coming weeks, and which calls for smart investment in strategic and critical infrastructure to ensure a high quality of life for future generations.

"Progress is not achieved by chance," Abela said, adding that it is built through vision, determination, perseverance and trust between government and the private sector.

He thanked contractors for their dedication and said that feedback from the sector had been appreciated and taken onboard.

In his closing remarks, Borg thanked the Prime Minister and reiterated that MIA's team is fully committed to delivering the East Expansion Project on time.