- Malta’s aviation industry has played a key role in the country’s economic success. Can you tell us about your vision for the future of the industry? As they say in America if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. I am on record acknowledging the fact that I inherited a healthy sector and therefore I would be naïve to try and change just for the sack of changing. I am aware of our strengths and our weaknesses and I will be addressing the weaknesses whilst continuing to support. I think we need to address the apparent lack of qualified staff and devise plans to get more young locals to start a career in aviation. The project was always focused in providing high quality jobs here in Malta. Although we feel we have done well we want to see more people chose aviation as their preferred career. Possibly we need more incentives so that people obtain the necessary licenses without breaking their bank. Malta has a very generous tertiary education system that actually pays students to obtain all sorts of degrees and certificates but maybe it is the time to extend similar ideas to the industry.
- The 9H aircraft register has been a significant factor in attracting business to Malta. Can you elaborate on the government’s strategy for the continued growth and success of the 9H register? Growth has been unbelievable and the figures speak for themselves. Although numbers are important there needs to be a good balance. We need to have all the necessary tools in place to make processes quicker and easier whilst remaining transparent and within our legal framework. Our Cape town compliance standing will be an asset when speaking to prospective clients and also our efficiency when it comes to the actual process. This however needs more manpower as the growth in aircraft and companies needs to have a parallel growth when it comes to oversight activity. Our goal has to be to keep our CAD manned with the right amount of talented people that are needed for the rasks.
- Malta has a thriving ecosystem of supporting industries for aviation. How is the Ministry fostering the development of these industries to ensure they can meet the demands of a growing aviation sector? Well as you know I haven’t been in my role for a very long time but I am starting to understand better the sector. I have had the opportunity to meet many stakeholders and I encourage others to approach my secretariat to discuss. The sector is a dynamic one that needs constant monitoring so as to remain at the top of our game. Through the new team at TM I am confident that we will work together to reach even higher levels.
- Environmental concerns are a growing priority for the aviation industry. How is Malta approaching the challenge of reducing emissions and promoting sustainable aviation practices? I don’t think it is fair to single out aviation. The issue is a global issue which needs global action. Malta as part of the EU is required to fulfil all our obligations and through our laws and oversight we must maintain the momentum. I must state that the industry has already achieved impressive reductions due to technology introduce on their on steam. Today the modern aircraft fly much more efficiently and studies show that the CO2 of a passenger over a specific distance is much less than it used to be and this before the introduction of SAF which will further reduce emissions.
- The global aviation industry has faced challenges due to recent geopolitical events. How has this impacted Malta’s aviation sector, and what measures are being taken to mitigate these effects? My government has always sought to promote peace. Having said that the reality is that without being sensitive to the suffering of those people direct involved, the industry is hit badly by cancellations and airspace restrictions which add cost and also discourage travel in some instances.
- Do you see any potential opportunities arising from these events for Malta’s aviation industry? Well I do not like to take advantage in such instances as I have a lot of empathy towards people in distress , but there is always the chance that a reduction in flights to one destination might increase the numbers to another.
- A skilled workforce is crucial for the success of the aviation industry. How is Malta ensuring it has a qualified talent pool to meet the future needs of the sector? Well the statement is partially correct because the shortage of qualified persons is not a Malta problem nor is it an aviation problem. It is a world wide phenomena that has baffled many. We are however looking at various ways of improving the visibility of the industry with the younger generation and as a Minister I am working on various initiatives to help improve the pool of people available. I hope to be able to announce some initiatives later on in the year.
- Are there any specific programs or initiatives in place to attract and retain talent in aviation-related fields? Malta already offers tax incentives to foreigners who come to Malta bringing with them a wealth of experience. We might need however to revisit the scheme to make it more attractive . I believe that we should encourage and incentivize even those who have reached their retirement age to prolong their career as we cannot afford to reduce people especially in the next 2 to 3 years. I also think that we should consider paying for exams and other costs of those studying so that the impact of getting a license is not as big on their families. We also need to try and find a way to support the General aviation sector which is struggling to find its feet due to restrictions at Luqa.
- What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing Malta’s aviation industry in the next 5-10 years? Opportunities are everywhere. We are well positioned and well known. We need to grow but remain strong in our oversight so as to keep safety top of the agenda. Safety needs to be our most important goal and we need to continue working hard to strike the right balance between pragmatism and safety.
- Is there anything else you would like to share about your vision for the future of Malta’s aviation industry? Well I have started to feel the passion of the aviation industry and the stakeholders. I am motivated by the energy levels and enthusiasm that they radiate. When I do things I try to dedicate the time and effort to understand better the real worries. I want to learn more and want to help the industry grow and provide a better future for our kids.
