Ryanair Records Busiest Year in Malta

Ryanair has announced 2025 as its busiest year in Malta, carrying 5.2 million passengers, a 15 per cent increase, following the addition of a ninth based aircraft representing a $900 million investment. The low-cost carrier now accounts for over half of all passengers passing through Malta International Airport (MIA), cementing its position as the dominant operator at the Mediterranean hub. 

The airline's growth reflects Malta's broader aviation boom, with the airport welcoming record passenger numbers as tourism continues its upward trajectory. Ryanair operates 67 routes from Malta, connecting the archipelago to destinations across Europe with competitive fares that have proven particularly attractive to British, Italian, and Polish travellers. 

Jade Kirwan, Ryanair's Director of Communications, highlighted the airline's commitment to Malta through ongoing investments including a maintenance facility and expanded office space. The carrier plans to unveil its Summer 2026 schedule in the coming weeks, promising further connectivity for Maltese residents and visitors. 

The aviation sector's expansion comes as Malta positions itself as a major aircraft leasing centre. The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) has launched a public consultation on a streamlined regulatory framework for aircraft financial leasing companies with assets exceeding €100 million. Under the proposed notification-based system, lessors and financiers would no longer require banking licences, instead simply registering with the MFSA. 

The regulatory initiative forms part of the National Strategy for the Financial Services Sector, created by the Malta Financial Services Authority Council (MFSAC), which identifies aircraft leasing as a potential centre of excellence. The jurisdiction already benefits from established aviation infrastructure and favourable legislative frameworks, with recent improvements including enhanced enforcement mechanisms for share pledges and simplified aircraft importation procedures. 

Feedback on the MFSA public consultation must be submitted by 9 February 2026. The Consultation Document, relevant documentation and instructions for submission of feedback can be found on the MFSA’s website.