IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO RANIERO FARRUGIA

Maintenance Control Centre Engineer

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT AIR MALTA AND IN WHAT ROLES?

I joined Air Malta in November 2022 as a Supervisor Engineer in the Maintenance Control Centre after spending 20 years with various maintenance providers and airlines.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE?

The interesting dynamic environment of an airline. Coordinating with various departments and stakeholders within the airline, to ensure a smooth and efficient running of the operation.

AND WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT?

The most challenging aspects are the changing priorities during the day and the troubleshooting process to identify and solve technical problems.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR FREE TIME? Spending time and going out with my family.

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE EUROPEAN DESTINATION AND WHY?

Geneva and the surrounding regions. It is an all-round family destination enjoyable during any season. From exploring the old medieval city to the CERN laboratory, and from lake G eneva to the surrounding mountains.

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION YOU HAVE VISITED AND WHY?

New Zealand, for its untouched scenery.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE LANGUAGE?

Whilst English is my second language and we practice it every day, Italian is also a favourite language. This reminds me of my childh ood, arriving home from school and watching cartoons on Italian TV stations.

FAVOURITE MOVIE?

Any action movie with spectacular display of events. However, I also enjoy a good comedy movie.

FAVOURITE GENRE OF MUSIC? Classic Rock.

DREAM HOLIDAY DESTINATION? Japan.

WHERE WOULD YOU RECOMMEND VISITING WITHIN THE MALTESE ISLANDS?

I strongly recommend a visit to one of the gardens surrounding Valletta which are within walking distance from the centre. They provide a shady place as relief from the summer’s scorching heat, as well as a tranquil and peaceful haven, with breath-taking views all year round. To mention a few, there are the Argotti Botanical Gardens in Floriana, Hastings Gardens in Valletta, and the Msida Bastion Cemetery and Historic Garden.

PREFERRED MALTESE DISH?

Nothing beats my dad’s Timpana, which is baked macaroni in pastry.

FAVOURITE MALTESE EXPRESSION?

“Taqtax qalbek ”, which translated to English is “don’t cut your heart”. In Maltese it means “don’t give up”.