Malta's tourism future depends on expanding long-haul aviation, particularly towards North America and Asia, Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Ian Borg said Friday.

Speaking at the fifth edition of the Deloitte Malta Aviation Conference, Borg emphasised that while Malta must continue strengthening its established short-haul network, long-haul growth will be key to increasing competitiveness and resilience in the tourism sector.

Borg highlighted the "inseparable link" between air travel and tourism, stressing that aviation is central to Malta's economy as an island nation. Borg also noted that over 98% of visitors to Malta arrive by air, making connectivity the most decisive factor in the country's tourism competitiveness. 

"Our success relies on a healthy airline mix," Borg said, underlining the importance of collaboration between legacy carriers, low-cost airlines, and government entities. 

Borg pointed to the upcoming non-stop Malta-New York route as a "tangible example of what focused, long-term planning can deliver".

Borg explained that Malta's Connectivity Strategy prioritises route development, market diversification, and year-round accessibility to support sustainable growth. He called for stronger collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and aviation experts to support the country's aviation and tourism sectors. 

Addressing policymakers, Borg said their role is to ensure "clarity, consistency, and predictability," noting that aviation depends on stable regulatory frameworks. He urged industry leaders to "invest with confidence" and align innovation and growth plans with Malta's long-term connectivity goals.