T-21 December edition by peter.p.barbara

T-21 DECEMBER 2021 | EDITION 05 04

T H E T R A N S P O R T M A LTA Q UA R T E R LY

Transport Malta’s Civil Aviation Directorate and its Role in Malta’s Aviation Industry 9H Malta – The Malta Aircraft Register

Government unveils the Malta Metro Network proposal and the start of a wide Public Consultation Process he 2021 Don’t Drink and T Drive Campaign Officially Launched in Collaboration with the band The Travellers

B O R X I T E JEKK S ISSUQX!

contents 02

Note from the editor

Foreword

14 PUBLISHER

Transport Malta

A Time to Stop and Reflect

he 2021 Don’t Drink T and Drive Campaign Officially Launched in Collaboration with the band The Travellers

Transport Malta delegation visits the Institute of Engineering and Transport - MCAST

100

Government unveils the Malta Metro Network proposal and the start of a wide Public Consultation Process

In the News

Reflections of a Successful Year: Reaching Targets Against All Odds on Land, at Sea, in the Air

Transport Malta’s Civil Aviation Directorate and its Role in Malta’s Aviation Industry

110

Public Participation in the Malta Metro Proposal

9H Malta – The Malta Aircraft Register

118

The Malta Aviation Conference and Expo (MACE) 2021

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects presents the Malta Metro studies to the European Commission

The Traffic Control Centre

120

Harnessing technology to reduce transportrelated emissions: The case of Valletta

Malta: The Jurisdiction of Choice for Superyachts

124

Digitalisation of the Malta Maritime Administration

New hospital ship which will treat people in Africa will carry Maltese maritime flag

128

The Making of The Travellers’ Music Video as part of Transport Malta’s 2021 Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign

Transport Malta’s Annual Back-to-School Campaign: Facilitating navigation through Maltese Roads

130

Pollution Response Exercise in the Grand Harbour CALYPSO POLEX 2021

Tħallix jum jgħaddi mimli dmugħ… Jekk se tixrob, issuqx Don’t let a day pass full of tears – Don’t drink and drive

134

The largest ever package of transport financial grants awarded

140

The 42nd Rolex Middle Sea Race Kicks Off

EDITOR

Peter Paul Barbara DESIGN AND LAYOUT

Pure Concepts Design Studios PRINTER

iCreate In collaboration with the TM Marketing Department

Malta Transport Centre Triq Pantar, Ħal Lija, LJA 2021 Malta

info@transport.gov.mt www.transport.gov.mt

DISCLAIMER The contents of the articles in this publication is the responsibility of the respective author and it does not necessary mean that the views expressed therein are the same or reflect those of Transport Malta.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR PETER PAUL BARBARA

Dear Reader,

“

THIS YEAR WE ARE CELEBRATING TEN YEARS OF AVIATION JURISDICTION, WHICH IS A FEAT IN ITSELF, ESPECIALLY WHEN ONE CONSIDERS THE AMOUNT OF WORK AND THE VERY HIGH LEVELS OF PROFICIENCY THAT THE AVIATION INDUSTRY REQUIRES. 2

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Welcome to the fifth edition of T-21: The Transport Malta Quarterly. As the name of the publication implies, we are supposed to have four editions per year, but this year we have decided to go an extra mile and issue a special edition of the publication dedicated to the proposed solution for a Mass Transport System, the Malta Metro, which in our opinion merited a publication on its own. T-21 will have additional special editions in the future if need be, tackling various topical issues relating to the world of transportation. One can find the soft version on our Transport Malta website, and the following is the link for all the previous editions published so far: T-21 Publication - Transport Malta (gov.mt). As editor of this publication, at the end of this full cycle of publications I am more than happy to note that the popularity and readership of this publication is growing each time a new publication comes out. This is also evident in data we receive from the online publisher, and I am equally pleased that the publication managed to also get readers from across the globe, as far as the United States, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, India, and many other countries in Europe.

For this edition I decided to keep

the successes being registered by

In this edition we are also publishing

my words to a minimum and let you

our National Aircraft Registry – 9H

a story on the launch event or public

flip through the contents we are

Malta. At this point I would also like

presentation of the proposed Malta

presenting to you this month.

to thank my colleagues at the CAD

Metro Network, which also signified

for arrainging the photography

the launch of a non-statutory public

This year we are celebrating ten

sessions and accompanying me

consultation

years of Aviation Jurisdiction, which

during the photography shoots

Those who would like to leave any

is a feat in itself, especially when one

as well as the MIA for granting the

comments or suggestions may do

considers the amount of work and

necessary permissions, time and

so on our dedicated web portal

the very high levels of proficiency that

assistance.

www.metro.mt.

the

proposal.

the aviation industry requires. current

This edition is being published in

It is fitting that this edition will be

Government grants for electric

December, the month of Christmas

mostly dedicated to Aviation and

vehicles, penned by Dep Chief

and New Year festivities, the period

the Civil Aviation Directorate within

Officer, Mr Gilbert Agius takes a

when one might close an eye or even

Transport Malta. In fact, the usual

closer look at the number of different

two and decide to make the wrong

special feature is fully dedicated to

grants that the general public and

decision to drink and drive. Here I will

the CAD and other stories related to

businesses can benefit from when

join the calls that for this time round,

our Aviation industry, most notably

purchasing electric vehicles.

before deciding to do something

article

about

the

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

foolish, pause and think about any

Transport Malta’s 24/7 Traffic Control

possible actions that might result

Centre, which I am sure that during

from your actions.

this month will be extra busy.

For this purpose, we are also

While I hope that you will enjoy this

publishing a story about Transport

edition, I wish you and your families,

Malta’s

the best of the festive season and

Don’t

Drink

and

Drive

Campaign which is being launched

hopefully see you again next March.

this December with the slogan Tħallix The Editor.

jum jgħaddi mimli dmugħ. For

the

2021

Campaign,

the

Peter Paul Barbara is Director Special

Maltese famed band The Travellers

Projects within the Deputy Chief

have joined Transport Malta to

Executive Officer & Chief Operating

contribute to our Don’t Drink and

Officer’s Office.

Drive Campaign, with the sole aim to influence drivers not to decide to drink and drive. The story featured in this year’s campaign also makes reference to the music video of The Travellers’ song Siġġu Vojt, as we went and followed the filming of the music video itself in which Transport Malta assets were used, notably two motorbikes from our Rapid Intervention Unit and a 4x4r Patrol Vehicle, also from our Enforcement Unit. Here I would also like to thank, our Enforcement personnel who stayed on set until the very early morning hours. We are also publishing some of the images taken on the production set.

“THE TRAVELLERS HAVE JOINED TRANSPORT MALTA TO CONTRIBUTE TO OUR DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE CAMPAIGN” Finally, we are also publishing a short article giving a brief insight on

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TWO IMPORTANT HALLMARKS FOR LAND TRANSPORT AND MALTESE CIVIL AVIATION

FOREWORD MR. JOSEPH BUGEJA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Transport Malta

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his will be the 5th edition of T-21 for this year as opposed to a planned four, as what normally, a quarterly publication means. However, this fall, we are publishing two editions instead of one, as in October we had decided to and in fact have already published a special edition in dedication to the launch or rather, the public presentation for the study of a mass rapid transport system, which study has been almost four years in the making.

the

proposed

undertaking. There is no room for

that have shown interest in the

something similar to what is being

mistakes. Once started, such a

proposal. Here, I will also take the

proposed,

project would need to be continued

opportunity to thank those local

and actually made operational.

councils who have reacted to the

will

network, eventually

implemented in the future, we will look back with satisfaction as we

proposal, both in writing and in one-

would have got the ball rolling and

And speaking of a mature discussion,

contributed with a comprehensive

I must state that the expected

plan for a national discussion to

discussion took off indeed on various

Over and above, we are also pleased

take place. As both the Hon. Prime

platforms; in the media, television

with the number of people that visited

Minister, Dr Robert Abela, and

and printed material, social media,

the information centre and exhibition

Minister for Transport, infrastructure

and above all, through our recently-

that was set up at the Triton Fountain

and Capital Projects, Dr Ian Borg,

launched dedicated website, metro.

Square, with an average of over 200

rightly said, such a project requires a

mt. On this website we gave the

persons per day over the period

mature and an apolitical discussion.

facility to the general public and all

that the centre was open. For those

those interested to leave comments,

who have not visited the information

The Malta Metro Proposal - Public

give suggestions, and above all,

centre, we have also put up part of

Consultation Underway

tell us what they think about the

the exhibition at our offices in Ħal Lija,

to-one meetings.

proposal. On this note, I must take the

so that people visiting our transport

The proposed Malta Metro network

opportunity to say that the feedback

centre can also have a look at it.

is a project that will transcend over

on this website is rather encouraging,

a number of years, possibly under

even when considering the number

I augur well that the discussion will

different,

over

of hits that the website has received,

continue over weeks to come. We are

approximately two decades. This

administrations,

as well as the amount of time that

still receiving feedback through the

means that a national consensus is

people have spent on the website

website, email, and when requested,

required before starting any form of

or sections of it, especially on the

in one-to-one meetings.

implementation, as such a project

promotional video of the proposed

would need to be continued and

network that we have uploaded on

Celebrating a decade of Maltese

different administrations would need

our dedicated web portal.

Aviation Jurisdiction

massive project, possibly the largest

Apart from this, we are also

The other important aspect that

these islands might ever experience,

having one-to-one meetings with

I would like to touch upon in this

would require a massive financial

stakeholders and other organisations

foreword concerns our aviation

to keep carrying the baton. Such a

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Although Malta has a long-standing aviation infrastructure, the major breakthrough was achieved in 2010 with the enactment of the Aircraft Registration Act.

achieved in ship registration in the already thriving aviation sector and helped to enhance the aviation framework on the islands. During the past decade, through the Civil Aviation Directorate, we have intensified our efforts to update the legislative framework related to Aircraft registration in Malta. Such changes resulted in a win-win

industry. It is very fitting in fact that

scenario for all parties involved as

in this T-21 edition, we are running a

they incorporated a more flexible

special feature on our Civil Aviation

regime that enables the investor and

Directorate, as this year we are

airline to better market their offering.

celebrating a decade of Maltese Aviation Jurisdiction.

Therefore,

such

changes

consolidated the oversight and the Our thriving Maltese aviation sector

overall regulation by the Directorate.

and the creation of an aviation framework, aimed at enhancing

Today, the regulatory role of the

aircraft

Authority

registration

and

aircraft

within

the

Maltese

operator licensing, is a prime example

aviation industry goes beyond that

of this.

of a regulator. Whilst ensuring a level playing field and enforcing

Although Malta has a long-standing

the relevant regulations that the

aviation infrastructure, the major

Government and the Authority has

breakthrough was achieved in 2010

enacted over the years, I strongly

with the enactment of the Aircraft

believe that another primary role

Registration Act. Such legislation

of Transport Malta is to be a real

aimed to replicate the success

instigator of innovation, spurring

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innovative thinking and being a

inception in 2010, with over 600 craft

size. We knew we were on a learning

growth enabler for all stakeholders of

bearing the 9H registration mark, we

curve but once the pace started

the Malta aviation sector.

need to strive more to make Malta a

to gather, we learnt to be resilient,

true aviation hub in the form of a one-

tenacious, and therefore gained

stop-shop for the industry, providing

experience. We are now prepared to

a complete service.

take the next step and attract even

Implementing

innovative

ideas

necessitates substantial investment both in soft and hard infrastructure.

larger operating companies. More airlines, particularly larger

We invest a lot in promotion, but still

airlines, are nowadays choosing

With

believe that our most important asset

the Maltese jurisdiction. This is

promotion, Malta slowly started to

is our human resources, not just our

testament to the excellent reputation

shed off the notion of the new and

own competent personnel in the Civil

the Maltese jurisdiction has managed

upcoming jurisdiction. At the same

Aviation Directorate but the cluster of

to build within the aviation sector.

time, we stepped up our investment

knowledgeable persons with diverse

further

investments

in human resources and the Civil

backgrounds and specialisation, all

The past decade has been a journey.

Aviation

aligned towards servicing our clients

At the beginning, we started focusing

grow to keep up with the regulatory

with diligence.

on small companies and being

function of the register.

Directorate

started

extremely attentive to their needs, Today, as our aviation register has

something which bigger jurisdictions

We know that investment in additional

grown almost five-fold since its

might have overlooked due to their

personnel and training of our existing

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

staff is very challenging, but we

creditor trust in the jurisdiction for

dimension as it provides an essential

also believe that it’s a prerequisite

aviation purposes.

framework

to success. I must admit that the

for

the

successful

interaction between all stakeholders.

Authority’s experience gained from

We need to continue to innovate on

Implementing regulations sometimes

managing the largest European

the one hand and be pragmatic on the

needs

shipping register was extremely

other. We are working consistently to

courage, and thinking out of the box.

valuable as both industries do

improve our systems and efficiency.

Regulation must also focus on the

have

similar

characteristics

bold

decisions,

political

future by creating new opportunities

management and regulatory terms.

Customers

Nevertheless,

determining

that we understand the business

factor that enabled us to grow

aspect of aviation. We are working

significantly over the past decade

to ensure that businesses safely

We look forward that in the next

was our ability to update our

achieve success by paying individual

decade we will supersede the

legislation. In the beginning, our

attention to every operator.

success we have achieved over

one

today

appreciate

adherence with the Cape Town

for our people, businesses, and aviation community.

the last ten years. We look forward

Treaty gave our aircraft register

This also means that we are open to

a distinct advantage that many

new business models and actions

operators valued and embraced as it

that further enhance connectivity.

guarantees and protects the rights of

Within this context, the role of

aircraft owners and permits further

regulation

assumes

towards this with optimism.

different

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Irresponsibility in one’s behaviour and actions may have, or rather leave severe and dire personal consequences, repercussions, distress, and worst of all, everlasting remorse or grief to those close to us and to third parties alike. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, most of the time, leads to this. One’s actions may lead to severe injuries to both the driver/s, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and can even lead to grievous permanent disabilities and fatalities. As we approach the festive season, some may have the temptation to drink alcohol or even abuse of it, and then drive. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime, and whether one does it every day or once a year is

A TIME TO STOP AND REFLECT

irrelevant.

KEVIN FARRUGIA Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Transport Malta

celebrations to many, is an even

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The month of December, a period that supposedly brings joy and more opportune time for everyone to stop and reflect, especially on the repercussions and devastation that drunk driving brings with it.

It is for this reason that Transport

band The Travellers to see how they

life and that of those around them in

Malta and the Malta Road Safety

could contribute towards our Road

the hands of alcohol’s effects.

Council have created a Don’t Drink

Safety Campaign, especially with

and

launched

their newly released song Siġġu

Each year, decisions taken to drive

festive

Vojt (Empty Chair). Transport Malta

under influence results in thousands

season over the last few years,

immediately took the opportunity to

of countless changed lives and

since many people are tempted to

make this collaboration possible and

deaths.

close an eye and drink and drive.

hence the band The Travellers will

published internationally, one out

This year is no exception, as the

be part of this year’s Don’t Drink and

of three deaths resulting from a traffic

Authority, together with the Malta

Drive Campaign.

crash involves a drunk driver.

on yet another Don’t Drink and

In spite of the efforts that we put

Drive Campaign, with a very strong

into organising such educational

message and slogan that reflect all

campaigns, putting in place new

the repercussions that drunk driving

legislation, installing speed cameras,

brings with it… Tħallix jum jgħaddi

putting in place heftier fines, and even

mimli dmugħ.

deducting the driver’s licence points,

For example, each day in the United States of America, almost 29 people lose their lives to an alcohol-impaired vehicle crash. In 2016, for example, this equated to one such death every 50 minutes.

Drive

specifically

Campaign, during

the

According

statistics

Road Safety Council, is embarking

there are people who still decide to Earlier this year, Transport Malta

drive under the influence of alcohol,

was approached by the Maltese

with the big possibility of putting their

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Deciding to Drink and drive is a

driving, there are instances when

serious crime. It might be even

drivers

considered to be a pre-meditated

including, for example, rage driving.

crime. Why? Because it is simply a

Such situations may arise due to

decision that one makes. An eventual

various reasons, one of them being

fatality (in the case of drunk driving)

traffic. Earlier this year, Transport

could be fully avoided if one would

Malta also launched the Back-to-

be in full control of his senses. Driving

School Campaign in order to deploy

per se requires sharp motor skills and

more assets and personnel for the

the ability to think clearly in order to

purpose of on-the-ground traffic

exercise good judgement when in

management. Transport Malta will

charge of the steering wheel. Driving

keep investing in its resources and its

under the influence impedes all this.

assets to try and make a difference to

This is not fiction but a scientifically

drivers every day.

change

their

behaviour,

proven reality. Some people, when under the influence, can barely walk

On the other hand, this is our appeal to

straight, let alone drive.

you, to those, who despite everything, will still decide to drink and drive this

Apart from the educational road

festive season, whoever you are.

safety campaigns that Transport Malta carries out from time to time,

Take time, stop, and reflect… Don’t be

Transport Malta is continuing to

the cause of leaving an empty chair

invest in its personnel, training, and

in a room or better still, in Maltese,

investments in its assets to enable it

“Tkunx il kaġun li tħalli fil-kamra/

to effectively and efficiently respond

Siġġu Vojt.”

when needed. For this reason, the Authority has again invested in another four new motorcycles to be used by its Rapid Intervention Unit. Apart from drunk

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Sabrina Zahra Manager Office of the Chairman & CEO M a r ke t i n g & P u b l i c R e l a t i o n s U n i t

IN THE NEWS 6th August - 3 flyers to promote Land Transport Services

11th August – Slow Streets Project In

collaboration

with

22nd-25th September – Malta Ship Registry in the Monaco Yacht Show

Transport

Transport Malta published three

Malta, the project Slow Streets

The Malta Ship Registry within

flyers in order to facilitate services

was inaugurated as part of an

Transport

for those who wish to transfer the

accessibility

certain

the Monaco Yacht Show between

ownership of a vehicle, register a

locations in Malta. Slow Streets is an

Wednesday 22nd and Saturday 25th

vehicle as vintage, and garage/de-

action plan to ensure that mobility in

September. The Monaco Yacht

garage a vehicle. A printed copy of

our community is safe, sustainable,

Show promotes the Malta Flag with

each flyer is available at Transport

strong, and efficient.

the aim to increase the number of

Malta Land Transport Directorate in Ħal Lija and Paola.

9th August – Solar panels on public transport fleet Last summer, a project for the installation of solar panels on top of public transport vehicles was inaugurated. These solar panels are to be installed in order to electrify the public transport fleet. These buses shall produce less CO2 therefore contributing to cleaner air.

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scheme

Malta

participated

superyachts registered under it.

3rd September – Arrival of M/V Global Mercy in Malta

6th September – Drones Campaign

The M/V Global Mercy, a ship

Throughout the month of September,

registered under the Maltese Flag,

the Transport Malta Facebook page

made its arrival in Malta at the

hosted a campaign about the safe

beginning of September. This vessel

use of drones and related training,

offers medical assistance to people

permissions, and clearance that

in Africa. The Authority exempts

one needs to obtain before flying a

this vessel from all registration

drone. With the change in drones’

taxes, including expenses related

regulations that came into force

to the crew’s certificate, thereby

last December, it is vital to inform

contributing to this good cause.

the public residing in Malta about everything drone related.

The campaign, celebrated across all EU Member States, was headed by the European Commission, and was held between the 16th and 22nd September, ending with World Car Free Day. Activities and measures implemented as part of the 2021 campaign intend to encourage and promote sustainable mobility through healthy lifestyle actions under this year’s slogan ‘Move Sustainably. Stay Healthy’.

13th September – Maritime Enforcement Unit x AFM rescue exercise Last

summer,

the

Maritime

Enforcement Unit within Transport Malta and the Armed Forces of Malta conducted a marine rescue exercise. This exercise was held so that the officers enrich their abilities in emergency situations.

15th September – Back to School Campaign 6th September – Maritime Proof of Concept Fund applications open

10th September 2021 The Sustainable Mobility campaign in Malta

Just before the beginning of the academic year, Transport Malta launched its annual Back to School campaign, which introduced three useful services:

The applications for the Maritime

In line with this year’s theme for

Proof of Concept Fund are open. The

the

Week

from Gozo to University, MCAST

agreement between Transport Malta

2021, the ‘Safe and Healthy with

in Paola or Mosta, or going to

and the University of Malta shall offer

Sustainable Mobility in Malta’ event

Junior College, may use public

a total of €100,000 to those who

was organised to raise awareness

transport connectivity via routes

come up with initiatives related to the

150 and 300.

maritime sector.

and health locally, while providing

European

challenges

Mobility

around

•

mobility •

Those travelling by Fast Ferry

Free towing service during

practical take-aways and information

the scholastic year. One may

to the audience.

call 80073399 from Monday

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20 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

to Friday between 06:00 and 09:30 and between 15:30 and 18:30, where a tow truck moves your vehicle to the closest safe location to reduce traffic congestion. •

Maltese Roads Traffic Updates app – This app displays the situation of the traffic straight away, to help one plan their route better. Transport Malta advises against using this app whilst driving.

23 September – Free public transport in Gozo rd

On Friday 17

1st October - 2021 BLUE MED FAB Just Culture Declaration The BLUE MED FAB Member States’

representatives,

together

exercise was to study different types of mass rapid transit systems currently available on the market, and after carrying out an options analysis come up with a proposed solution which would be best suited for Malta.

with the FAB’s ANSPs directors and high-level representatives of the

international

Organisations

ATCEUC, ETF and IFATSEA, have

15th October – Sustainable Mobility in Marseille

signed the ‘BLUE MED FAB Just Culture Declaration’. The signatories

The Department within Transport

of this Declaration will encourage

Malta that is responsible for the

their respective Organisations and

promotion of sustainable mobility,

their own individual members to

together with delegates from the

implement and continuously improve

Ministry for Energy, Enterprise and

an effective Just Culture within the

Sustainable Development who are

BLUE MED FAB.

responsible for the installation of electric pillars, participated in the

September, public

transport in Gozo was free of charge.

Just Culture has got a direct impact

fourth European Energy for Smart

This initiative was organised by Eco-

on lowering incidents and preventing

Mobility forum in Marseille, dedicated

Gozo within the Ministry for Gozo, in

aircraft accidents. The aim of this

collaboration with Transport Malta,

Just Culture Declaration is to support

The main discussions were about

on the occasion of the European

the maximum level of compliance

major international challenges at

Mobility Week. The Authority is

with the requirements of the Single

the interface between energy and

pleased to say that 6,000 people

European Sky and in particular

smart mobility. They also had the

made use of the free public transport

the European Union Regulation

opportunity to visit a site installed

offered on this day. Transport Malta

376/2014.

through

public to make use of this type of

While the aviation sector is preparing

sustainable transport.

for the recovery after the profound challenges imposed by the pandemic, the BLUE MED FAB is proud of this

27 September – Transport Malta contributes to Karl Vella Foundation

important achievement, reached in a good spirit of collaboration among all BLUE MED partners together with ATCEUC, ETF and IFATSEA.

solutions.

EnerNETMob

15th October – Transport Malta participates in Freshers’ Week The team within Transport Malta which is responsible for Sustainable Mobility, together with the Human

As in other previous years, Transport Malta is contributing to the Karl Vella

the

energy

Funded Project.

constantly encourages the general

innovating

Resource Department, participated

children. The Karl Vella Foundation

2nd October – Malta Metro Launch

assists children who are going

In the beginning of October, the

promoting the drive towards cleaner

through difficult times in their life.

public presentation for a proposal

forms of mobility. The Authority

of a Metro system in Malta was

participates in Freshers’ Week every

launched. The objective of this

year.

Foundation’s transport service for

in the Freshers’ week at the university of Malta and MCAST with the aim of

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SwissDrones, a globally expanding Swiss aviation company specialising in the development, manufacturing, and

operation

unmanned

helicopter

long-range systems

for commercial and public safety applications, concluded flight testing in Malta. The Malta archipelago offers an ideal geographical location for flight testing in demanding maritime conditions over long distances. SwissDrones conducted a series

21st October – National Household Travel Survey in Malta In November, the National Household Travel Survey is to take place, with a number of pre-selected households participating. For the first time ever, this survey shall be conducted online. This survey, conducted every 10 years, is another method of gathering information with the aim to assist plans for the shift towards cleaner mobility and transport.

22nd October – Transport Malta in the Greening the Islands e_Convention In

October,

Transport

Malta

of long-range Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights over water for rigorous maritime patrol, search and rescue, and surveillance mission simulations during this testing. DRONAMICS, the world’s leading middle-mile cargo drone developer

29th October - Transport Malta is offering a shuttle service during works carried out in Mġarr In order to reduce the inconvenience to the public as a result of the roadworks in Triq Sir Temi Zammit in Mġarr, Transport Malta is offering a shuttle service between Mġarr/ Żebbiegħ

and

Mosta,

Monday

1st

November

between and

Wednesday 3 November. rd

This service will be conducted by means of minivans which are identified by a sign. This service is being provided to the public free of charge by Transport Malta.

and operator, selected Malta as its first European operation base to provide same-day delivery service with the Black Swan Drone in 2022. Malta was selected since it is a

1st November – Work on Don’t Drink & Drive Campaign underway

perfect operational and strategic location for the first flights of the

Every year, Transport Malta launches

Black Swan. DRONAMICS aims to

a Don’t Drink and Drive campaign,

connect Malta with Italy to trial these

which is there to educate drivers

remote pilot aircraft systems.

about the dangers of drinking and driving. These campaigns are usually accompanied by a message to

26th – 28th October – Third edition of MACE

symbolise how this could impact the lives of those who are on the road. The Authority always strives to keep

participated in the Greening the Islands e_Convention, where the

The third edition of the Malta Aviation

road users safe, especially during this

importance of the uptake of cycling

Conference and Expo (MACE) was

busy time of year.

as a sustainable and viable transport

held in October of this year. The

option was discussed.

Authority

continuously

supports

MACE, as it is the appropriate medium to promote and foster civil

27 October – SwissDrones and DRONAMICS conduct flight testing in Malta th

aviation in line with its vision for its flourishing and dynamic Civil Aviation Directorate.

1st November #MaltaSuqBilGalbu campaign coming to an end The #MaltaSuqBilGalbu campaign is now coming to an end. The year-

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

long road etiquette campaign was introduced in the first week of January 2021, with two infographics being published on the Transport Malta social media accounts every Tuesday and Thursday. With brief messages and eye-catching infographics, the aim of this road etiquette campaign is to educate users of Maltese roads on the different methods of transportation. Be it walking, riding a horse, cycling, or driving a car, everyone must share the same roads and show consideration towards other road users. #MaltaSuqBilGalbu has also been extended to the VMSs found across Malta. With the help of these VMSs scattered around the island, drivers

25th November – Vehicle registration plates lost during stormy weather

Mobility’, four localities were chosen as winners of projects for permanent sustainable

Vehicle registration plates lost and found in the streets following the

be observed when one is on the road.

15th November – Luigi Mifsud wins Transport Malta Performance Award for best improved performance between runs during the 5 round National Hillclimb Championship

measures,

Local Councils. The total number of applications this year was 16.

storms will be handed to Transport Malta. Later on, Transport Malta will contact the respective owners to collect

1st December – Annual Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign Launched

the new plates from the Authority’s offices. In such circumstances, the

Transport Malta, in collaboration

Authority will reissue the registration

with the Malta Road Safety Council

plates free of charge.

and The Travellers, has launched its annual campaign to remind the

Drivers are encouraged to drive with

general public not to drink and drive.

care and attention especially during bad weather conditions.

The slogan chosen this year is ‘Tħallix jum jgħaddi mimli dmugħ. Jekk se

and pedestrians are constantly reminded of the etiquette that must

mobility

which shall be implemented by their

tixrob issuqx!’

30 November – Winners of European Mobility week permanent sustainable measures announced th

For the 20th Edition of the European Mobility Week, with the theme ‘Safe and Healthy with Sustainable

This year, the campaign was created together with the band The Travellers and their newly released song ‘Siġġu Vojt’, which tells the heartbreaking story of the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

Luigi Mifsud won the Transport Malta Performance Award for best improved

performance

between

runs during the 5 round National Hillclimb Championship. England

Insurance

Transport

Malta 5 round National Hillclimb Championship came to a successful end in mid-November with a record entry list of 64 people.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

REFLECTIONS OF A SUCCESSFUL YEAR: REACHING TARGETS AGAINST ALL ODDS ON LAND, AT SEA, IN THE AIR DR. IAN BORG Hon Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

t remains the global norm to talk

this measure to be announced as the

about the COVID-19 pandemic

Government has been expanding

and this is rightly so, as the

the demographic benefitting from

unexpected

free public transport year after year.

emergence

and

rapid spread of the virus shocked each and every one of us. Whilst

The future lies in electrification, and

2020 will forever be remembered

we are all for the electrification of

as one of the worst years for global

vehicles. 2030 is our target to have

economies, 2021 has been the

the entire public transport fleet

first step of the global economic

electrified, with the Government

regeneration ladder. Whilst some

investing €40 million from European

countries are still facing severe

Funds to reach this goal. At the

consequences due to the pandemic,

same time, the public remains the

Malta was backed by a Government

focal point and through the largest

with a strategic plan to drive Malta’s

electric vehicle grants package ever

economy back to its resilience at full

given, this year, we are lifting some of

speed. One of the major contributors

the purchasers’ burden and helping

towards

has

them to naturally make the shift to

always been the transport sector

buying electric vehicles. With this

and this Government never ceased

budget we have also increased funds

to stop investing in this pillar and

and grants. For example, those who

reach the desired targets against all

choose to buy a new electric vehicle

odds - on land, at sea, and in the air.

and scrap their old vehicle can

economic

growth

benefit for the scrappage scheme 2021 marked a turning point in land transport. A case in point was revealed in this year’s social budget, with measures such as the very well received free public transport for all, coming into effect next October wherein the name implies, everyone will

benefit

from

free

public

“2030 IS OUR TARGET TO HAVE THE ENTIRE PUBLIC TRANSPORT FLEET ELECTRIFIED...”

transport. It was a matter of time for

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

grant which in this year’s budget

in the Grand Harbour, which even

chosen to use the 9H Register as

was also increased by €3000; from

with the contribution of the private

their preferred jurisdiction.

€9000 to €12000. At the same time,

sector, will put Malta on the next

our commitment to incentivise more

level so that our port will remain

The recent launch of the National

active transport remains intact.

a source of economic and social

Aviation Policy, geared towards

activity. Our vision is to clean up the

reaping the best possible share of

Shifting towards sea transport, 2021

port and give this gem the rebirth it

the forecast global aviation growth,

has been further proof that Malta

deserves. About twelve abandoned

seeks to ensure that throughout

has established itself as one of the

vessels and two oil rigs have been

the coming nine years the Maltese

leading maritime hubs and service

removed from the Grand Harbour

aviation sector not only manages

centres in the Mediterranean region.

already, and clear waters are slowly

to recover from the backlash of

It has developed a very strong

but surely being reclaimed.

the COVID-19 pandemic, but also

regulatory platform that has enabled

continues to develop and prosper. It

the Malta Flag to become a reputable

identifies over twenty objectives that

and internationally recognised ship register which is now one of the largest in the world. It was in fact this year that we managed to reach a

thousand

superyachts

being

registered under the Maltese flag. Despite the pandemic’s effect, this Government has never failed to hold up to its standard of work ethic, especially in sea transport. The fast ferry service is a prime example of alternative sea transport, already used by a quarter of a million users in just the first four months since its inception: a showcase of reaching

“THE GOVERNMENT’S VISION FOR THE GRAND HARBOUR WILL CREATE NEW SPACES FOR THE MARITIME SECTOR, INTRODUCE RECREATIONAL AREAS FOR FAMILIES, AND REHABILITATE HISTORIC SITES.”

targets against all odds.

will, among others, help to enhance the economic benefits deriving from a thriving civil aviation sector, exploit the potential of new and emerging sectors, strengthen the critical role of aviation in terms of connectivity with continental land masses, and tackle pre-existing conditions such as congestion and carbon footprint. Our vision for transport does not only tackle the present needs but

overshadows

the

future,

and our long-term plan is mass transportation.

With

intensive

studies conducted by the highly reputable

company

ARUP,

the

metro proposal, which has also been 2021 has been an indispensable

In terms of aviation, it has been

positively received by the European

year, as it kickstarted the Grand

shown to have the greatest impact

Commission, will be our blueprint for

Harbour Regeneration Plan. The

by the pandemic, yet despite the

the transport system straits ahead in

Government’s vision for the Grand

challenging period, the sector is

Malta. A national discussion is highly

Harbour will create new spaces

gradually regaining traction. Total

urged to further strengthen this plan

for the maritime sector, introduce

aircraft movements between June

and vision and ultimately truly reap

recreational

families,

and September this year increased

the benefits of such project. All this

and rehabilitate historic sites. Our

areas

for

by almost 90% compared to the

can be achieved by having a strong

harbour is of strategic importance. It

same period in 2020. Malta’s aircraft

united nation who backs up this idea,

is a harbour that has a variety of uses;

registry continued to grow, and this

this proposal, this vision.

industrial, freight, but also touristic,

growth was driven partly by some

and so every place we have in this

of our existing AOCs, and partly by

harbour needs to be well utilised. We

new companies getting on board. A

are looking at nine specific zones

number of leasing companies have

26 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

TRANSPORT MALTA’S CIVIL AVIATION DIRECTORATE AND ITS ROLE IN MALTA’S AVIATION INDUSTRY CAPTAIN CHARLES PACE Director General for Civil Aviation And Chief Officer Civil Aviation Directorate

28 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

he birth of Aviation in Malta can be traced back to 1904, when an air balloon flight carrying the Royal Engineers Balloon Unit visited Malta. The first historic visit, signalling the first flight ever flown to Malta, could be traced back to the 13th of February 1915, when a Short Seaplane Type 135 No. 136 performed its first flight in Malta, taking off from the Grand Harbour. The aircraft was lowered into the sea from HMS Ark Royal on the 13th of February 1915 and flew for 35 minutes. The role of the aircraft was to escort convoys and detect enemy submarines. In the early 1920s, aviation took off with seaplanes carrying a very limited number of passengers and mail from Italy and the UK, making use of the British Forces’ military bases in Kalafrana and Marsaskala since at the time Malta did not yet have an airport. It was in fact in 1958 that the first terminal in Ħal Luqa was officially opened. However, having said that, the Royal Air Force built and started to operate its first airfield in Ħal Far on January 16th, 1923.

On the other hand, the development

The advent of the long-range piston

of the Ħal Luqa Airport can be traced

engine aircraft as well as the big jets

back to the pre-World War II period,

in the mid-sixties practically brought

as it was being built due to exigences

all the technical stops in Ħal Luqa

of the British Military Services at the

down to zero. This was however

time. In fact, on the eve of the Second

compensated by an increase in

World War, circa until 1940, the

terminal traffic as Malta’s tourist drive

British were still making use of their

started gaining momentum.

Kalafrana facilities for seaplanes, as well as the aerodromes in Ta’ Qali and

As Malta began to establish itself

Ħal Far for the Royal Air Force and

as a main touristic destination in the

for civilian flights. In fact, the Ħal Luqa

middle of the 1960s, runway 24-06

aerodrome began its first operations

was extended to its present length

in April 1940, and included tarmac

of 7800 feet to enable the first civil

runways.

jet transports to land in Ħal Luqa. The runways were extended again in

When World War II ended, civil flights

1973, by extending runway 14-32 to a

resumed operations in Ħal Luqa, and

length of 11,000 feet and equipping it

the aerodrome was equipped with

with a Category 2 instrument landing

a small air terminal adjacent to the

system.

threshold of the existing runway 24. At the time, the main aircraft used for

The next milestone in Ħal Luqa

operations were de Havilland Doves,

Airport’s history happened on 1st

Lancastrians, DC3s, and Vikings.

April 1979, when for the first time, the airport became completely civil

When in 1956 the new terminal

and started being operated solely

started its operations, it had two main

by Maltese personnel right after

runways, that were approximately

the official withdrawal of the British

6000 feet long by 150 feet wide.

Armed Forces from Malta on the

During this time, the Ħal Luqa

31st of March 1979. One has to note

facilities were also used as a stop by

that until that time, the RAF had

aircraft, flying from North Europe to

retained sole operating responsibility

the Middle East and other countries

for the airport, besides exclusively

in Africa. These stops however were

occupying parts of the airfield for

not being made anymore when the

military use.

newer long-range aircraft, including big jets, were being introduced and

The British Services’ withdrawal had

were eventually replacing the old

required a lot of effort and work on

avionics.

part of the Maltese Government,

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

CIVIL AVIATION IS MALTA’S ESSENTIAL LINK TO THE WORLD AND IS ALSO A SIGNIFICANT ENABLER AND CONTRIBUTOR TOWARDS THE COUNTRY’S ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS. 30 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

THE CIVIL AVIATION DIRECTORATE

as to have a sufficient number of

air terminal was inaugurated. The

trained personnel in the various

responsibility for the management of

airport operational services. To the

the new air terminal was taken up by a

credit of the Department of Civil

Government-owned company called

Civil Aviation is Malta’s essential link

Aviation, the takeover of operational

Malta International Airport.

to the world and is also a significant enabler and contributor towards the

responsibility of the Ħal Luqa Airport, the only airport on the Island, was

Major

improvements

were

also

country’s economic competitiveness.

effected smoothly and the transition

undertaken in the improvement of

For aviation in Malta to continue

was hardly noticeable, except for the

technical and operational facilities

to grow and stay ahead in an ever-

disappearance of the previously very

on the airfield, such as the installation

changing landscape, the Authority

familiar RAF aircraft.

of a second Category 2 instrument

needs to build on past successes and

landing system on runway 14,

plan ahead for the future.

Due to the increase in air traffic and

Runway Visual Range Systems,

soaring demands, in 1988 a decision

new

radar,

As Malta’s regulatory authority for

was taken to carry out one last

enhancement of ground lighting

aviation, the Civil Aviation Directorate

extension and refurbishment of the air

equipment, etc.

(CAD) needs to continue its process

approach

control

terminal and at the same time, plans

adapting

regulations

while

were being drawn up for the building

As from 1st May 1998, Malta

maintaining safety of the air transport

of a new and larger air terminal which

International Airport plc. took over

system. Risk management is a well-

could handle 1200 incoming and

the management of the operational

established discipline in the aviation

outgoing passengers per hour. The

facilities at Ħal Luqa Airport from the

industry today. These are important

refurbishment of the old terminal

Department of Civil Aviation. As from

steps towards improving safety and

was completed in a few months, and

this date, the role of the Department

enhancing the public’s confidence

the terminal was able to continue

of Civil Aviation became that of a

in the safety of Malta’s aviation

operations until 1992, when the new

regulatory body.

system.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

The functions of the CAD can be summarised as follows:

32 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

•

To achieve sustainable growth in the aviation register and civil aviation operations such as aircraft operators, maintenance, training, air navigation, and personnel licensing;

•

To enhance civil aviation oversight and safety;

•

To enhance the efficiency and standardisation of civil aviation operations;

•

To maintain a strong, efficient, and continuous oversight of civil aviation operations;

•

To strengthen law governing civil aviation;

•

To promote safety; and

•

To minimise the adverse effect of civil aviation on the environment.

•

Additionally, the CAD cooperates with other local and international entities to enhance aviation security, passenger/cargo facilitation, fair competition, environmental matters, civil-military interface, and health related issues.

CAD is increasing its expertise in the

safety, whilst playing a key role in our

area of Flight Simulators to provide

growth strategy. Aviation in Malta

qualification and oversight services

cannot develop in an unchecked and

to the flight training industry, initially

haphazard manner, therefore it is

within the EU but potentially also

conditional to have safety standards

further afield, outside the EU.

maintained by an effective oversight system.

Aircraft Registration and Aviation Aircraft Leasing Malta

Matters The

registration

experienced

sector

significant

has

Malta has been a long-standing

growth

and reputable jurisdiction for the

over the past six (6) years, with the

registration

Maltese aircraft register listing over

Leasing Malta aims to promote Malta

aircraft.

Aircraft

600 aircraft. The number of Air

as a jurisdiction for aircraft leasing

Operating Certificate (AOC) holders

services, building on an already

is currently 41. The CAD started

strong aircraft registration service.

issuing certificates for the approval

In this respect, a robust legislation

of flight simulators and by the end

has been introduced to cater for the

of October 2021, it had issued

registration of aircraft in Malta and

13 certificates. During 2021, the

the protection of rights of owners,

Directorate registered 1630 drones

lessors, and financiers alike. Owners

and approved 6,500 Drone Flight

and lessors have very strong rights

Submissions for drone flights.

and self-help measures in case of default, over and above particular

As a National Authority, the Civil

lessor-specific rights granted under

Aviation Directorate has always

the Cape Town Convention Aircraft

valued the importance of aviation

Protocol.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Cape Town Compliance Index Made Qualifying Declarations

Yes

Score

87.5

Category

Very High

Personnel Licensing Unit (PELU) In 2021, the Personnel Licensing Unit

There is currently a total of 1500

the strengths of the Unit and the high

(PELU) managed a total of 1218 pilot

attestations, 3 Language Testing

standards of their safety oversight.

licences, namely 818 professional

Bodies, and 5 Foreign Examination

licences and 400 private pilot

Centres.

licences, as well as 60 air traffic controller licences. PELU had a total of 401 initial issues which consisted of 113 Private Pilot Licences (PPL), 97

Commercial

Pilot

Throughout this year, the ANS

The Air Navigation Services (ANS) and Aerodromes (ADR) Unit

continued to audit MATS against the new EU Regulation 2017/373, which was applied as from 2nd January 2020. The ANS section also verified nine change management request

Licences

(CPL), and 191 Airline Transport

During the year under review, the

procedures from MATS, amongst

Pilot Licences (ATPL). Over 1000

COVID-19 virus pandemic remained

which was the operation of a military

examinations were conducted until

a very challenging factor both for

unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) within

September 2021. There are currently

the ANS and ADR Unit, as well as our

the environment of an International

8 Approved Training Organisations

undertakers, the Malta International

Airport, which for Europe is a first.

where PELU maintains regulatory

Airport (MIA) and Malta Air Traffic

Hence, this change management

oversight of all 8 approved training

Services (MATS). To a certain

procedure had to be carefully

organisations as Part-ORA.

extent, even the Unit’s oversight

studied and tested in a well-defined

programme had to adapt to this

phased approach. Another notable

Approved Training Organisations are

demanding situation. This was done

change was the introduction of

as follows:

by finding innovative ways of how to

the ICAO Global Reporting Format

European Pilot Academy

continue the oversight programme

which has been introduced as a

Malta School of Flying

by means of remote auditing and

global standardisation of reporting

Vistajet Ltd.

conventional methods when the

the condition of the runway with

Freebird

situation permitted. 2021 was also

regard to aircraft traction during

Air Horizont

a very busy year because the Unit

rain or hail, to move further towards

Air Malta

had to undergo an International Civil

the improvement of safety for

Flexjet Operations Malta

Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Virtual

landing and departing aircraft. This

MH Helicopters

Verification

Mission

change was also tackled by the

Coordinated

between 5 and 21 April. The scope

ADR section as the MIA are also

The number of Approved Cabin Crew

of the Mission was the verification of

party to this change. On a day-to-

Training Organisations is that of 7:

both the ANS and the ADR Sections.

day basis, the section continued its

Air Malta

The

Safety

work towards the implementation

AirX

Agency (EASA) conducted an on-site

of the 8.33 Frequency Regulation

Mel Air

audit on the ANS domain throughout

and the coordination of various

Fly People

October. Additionally, EASA revisited

activities, such as the launching of a

Corporate Flight Training

in November to conduct an audit on

space research vehicle by means of

TAG Aviation

the ADR domain. In both instances,

a high-altitude balloon as well as the

EAC

the EASA commented favourably on

oversight of the Malta International

34 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

European

Aviation

Air Show. The Unit also populated

the Section, due to the huge numbers

the Year 2021 LSSIP database and

of building applications submitted

in the last quarter of the year started

to the Planning Authority. In fact, this

working on the 2022 LSSIP Level 1

Section vetted eighty-five building

publication and database.

applications which may have an impact on the airport. Wildlife control

The ADR section continued the audit

and other aspects of enforcement

programme on the MIA, and oversaw

around the airport were also given

changes made by this company

due importance. The ADR section

through a well-documented Change

also oversaw off-site operations at

Management Process. Just like

private helipads and yacht marinas. It

in previous years, safeguarding

also assisted in the investigation and

of the Aerodrome also featured

follow-up of occurrence reports and

prominently in the day-to-day work of

assisted the BAAI as required.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

liaising

with

other

Government

entities and airline operators to ensure a smooth transition and continued air transport connectivity between Malta and the United Kingdom, as well as ensuring the required level of aviation safety in such operations. The ATRU is responsible for bilateral air services agreement negotiations with other third countries. This ensures that airlines flying to and from Malta have the necessary regulatory framework, and that air traffic rights to operate these flights are in place. The successful conclusion of Air Services Agreements (ASAs) as well as monitoring of same are required Air Transport Regulation Unit

During

both for the updating of the existing

(ATRU)

the outbreak of the COVID-19

ASAs with other third countries as

pandemic, the ATRU monitors the

well as ensuring compliance.

irregular

events,

The Air Transport Regulation Unit

developments in air transport from

(ATRU) assumes the International

and European Affairs functions of

perspective, and contributes to

the CAD and assists the Director

the coordination process, serving

General for Civil Aviation in air

as a link between the aviation

The ATRU assists the Director

transport regulation matters. The

stakeholders

airlines)

General for Civil Aviation in the

ATRU, in cooperation with other

and other Government entities.

preparatory work, the coordination

Government Ministries, participates

This ensures the continued air

process, and the on-site negotiations

international

and

(such

European

International

Organisations

–

ICAO, ECAC, & EU

and

connectivity of Malta with the rest

within the European Conference of

negotiations within the various EU

of the world, assistance in the

Civil Aviation (ECAC), the European

and International fora (such as ICAO,

repatriation of passengers, and

Union (EU), the International Civil

ECAC, and Eurocontrol, among

facilitation of essential operations in

Aviation Organisation (ICAO), and

others), and provides support and

a time of crisis.

Eurocontrol. The Unit establishes

aviation

discussions

various positions through strong

recommendations to the Ministries, essential for the formulation of

Similarly, in respect of the Brexit

participation

process, the ATRU participated in

which provides the opportunity

preparations for the new scenario,

for

considered

and

government position.

consolidated

36 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Malta

in to

the

make

debate, a

strong,

influential,

and

well-coordinated

Along

with

contribution to international aviation

aircraft

policy development.

improvements,

During

ICAO

oversight

advancements

technology, and

is done in order to better inform

operational

Government

sustainable

entities

and the

supranational economic

and

alternative fuels, CORSIA plays a

environmental impacts of the aviation sector.

audits

crucial role in mitigating the negative

of Malta, the ATRU serves as a

effects of CO2 emissions from

focal point in areas related to the

aviation (aviation GHG).

Safety and Compliance Unit

organisation and legislation matters. Environment: Noise

The Safety and Compliance Unit

Contribution to National Policy

from Aviation

(SCU) is the unit within the Civil

Continuous support is provided to the

As part of its environmental statistical

of dealing with the management of

DGCA, as well as to other Units within

analysis

ATRU

aviation safety, industry occurrence

the CAD, Government Ministries, and

monitored the rapid development

reporting, and internal compliance

other external parties in its work on

of landing and take-off cycles at the

of the Directorate with European

the drafting of national positions and

Malta International Airport (MIA) as

legislation

policies. The ATRU also drafts input

it approximated 50,000 movements,

standards. Safety has always been

for various Instruction Notes, Briefing

bringing the MIA close to the

and will remain the highest priority

Notes, and Memoranda that are used

threshold of scope of Regulation

to aviation service providers and

by high level Government officials

(EU) 598/2014. This EU regulation

stakeholders, and hence the SCU

during meetings abroad.

establishes rules and procedures

plays a crucial role within the industry.

Aviation Directorate with the function function,

the

and

international

with regard to the introduction of Environment:

Climate

Change

and Aviation impact mitigation

noise-related operating restrictions

The SCU is a standalone unit in the

at EU airports with a Balanced

organigram of the CAD, with the

Approach.

Head of Unit reporting directly to the

Following participation of the ATRU

Director General for Civil Aviation.

in the negotiations in the EU, ECAC,

Statistical Collation

The SCU works in close relation

and ICAO, the latter published the

and Analysis

with the other CAD units in terms

Carbon Offsetting and Reduction

of safety and internal oversight.

in International Aviation Scheme

The ATRU collects, collates, analyses,

Having a standalone unit ensures the

(CORSIA) standard in October 2018.

and relays statistical data to the ICAO

necessary autonomy to conduct its

This global market-based measure

as part of its obligations under the

duties of aviation safety analysis and

(GMBM) is one of a number of

Chicago Convention. This includes

internal oversight.

measures that the aviation sector is

data on flight operations, airport

implementing with the aim of reducing

operations, capacity of personnel

Maintaining the CAD’s continuous

CO2 emissions from international

and training facilities, as well as

pursuit in promoting the importance

aviation and is a key international

other indicators that support the

of safety to the local aviation industry,

instrument to reduce the emissions

assessment of growth of the sector

the SCU introduced new safety

of aviation that affect climate change.

and its environmental footprint. This

promotional material on the TM-CAD

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38 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

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its due attention at all fronts of the aviation operational spectrum, from the de-storage of aircraft, crewtraining, availability of personnel and expertise, to mention a few. CAD

Occurrence

Reporting

System Regulation (EU) 376/2014 concerns website and is publishing annual

occurrence reporting in civil aviation,

safety reports. Additionally, the SCU

and clearly states that operators and

presents safety data at specific

aviation professionals are required

events as appropriate, such as during

to report potential aviation safety

internal CAD Unit seminars, Flight

events, with the sole objective of

Operations

Group

occurrence reporting being the

(FOCG), and the Malta Aviation

prevention of accidents and incidents,

Conference and Expo (MACE).

not to attribute blame or liability. It

Coordination

also refers to who should report, Even

though

the

COVID-19

what should be reported under the

pandemic led to a great reduction in

mandatory and voluntary reporting

aviation activity, this phenomenon

scheme, and the responsibility of

has put additional pressures and

collection, storage, and protection

challenges on both operators and

regulatory

bodies.

The

information,

amongst

other

sudden

things. To ensure that occurrence

lack of operational activity has

reporting is used as an additional

brought about its fair share of new

tool to pro-actively identify safety

operational risks within the industry,

concerns, the SCU strengthened its

which the CAD was monitoring

working coordination with aviation

and sharing information about. The

stakeholders and the Maltese Bureau

SCU was in constant liaison with

of Air Accident Investigation (BAAI).

the respective CAD inspectorates, EASA counterparts, and operators/

Between January 2021 and the end

organisations

CAD

of October 2021, the SCU analysed

oversight in order to ensure that

an excess of 4,000 reported events.

operational safety risks are identified,

Any report classified as a Mandatory

and mitigation measures are put in

Occurrence Reporting (MOR) is

place. With the ramp-up in aviation

evaluated to better identify the risks

operations, safety is being given

and risk score and is followed up

40 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

under

the

to ensure that the causal factors,

level of aviation safety.

a means of continued compliance to

root cause analysis, and mitigation

aviation rules. This role is part of the

measures are identified by the

Further

operator/organisation

the

above

master

responsibility of the SCU.

avoid

documents, the SCU publishes an

a repetition of such an event. A

annual safety review report. The

The SCU conducts internal audits

few of these reports were also

scope of the Malta Civil Aviation

in relation to specific regulatory

submitted as ‘voluntary reports’

Safety Report is to provide an

requirements in the domains of

which required the CAD to conduct

overview of a set period in relation

Flight

its own investigations to verify

to the Maltese civil aviation safety

and Air Navigation Services, Aero-

allegations and consequently take

data. The content and analysis of this

medical, and Personnel Licensing.

the necessary actions in line with

report is based on data extracted

The scope of each audit is planned

safety management principles.

from the Transport Malta Civil Aviation

annually,

Directorate (TM-CAD) occurrence

function also incorporates ad hoc

reporting system, as required by

audits as part of its implementation.

regulation (EU) 376/2014. All State-

Findings

The SCU develops and controls the

safety related documentation and

issued in accordance with internal

State Safety Programme (SSP) and

other

documents/

auditing procedures and rectified

the State Plan for Aviation Safety in

notices are publicly available on the

appropriately by the responsible

Malta (SPAS). The former serves as

TM-CAD website, under the Safety

owner. In addition, the SCU, by means

the master document for all safety

Management section.

of the National Standardisation

State Safety Documentation

supporting

activities that must be performed by

Operations,

and

Coordinator,

the State, together with regulations

CAD

and directives declared by the

Function

Internal

Compliance

compliance

observations

are

participates

European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

State to support its responsibilities

the

Aerodromes

Standardisation

Visits

when the CAD is being audited by

concerning safe and efficient delivery

Aviation

regulated

the Agency. Following such audits,

of aviation activities within its territory.

industry. The CAD, as the regulator

the SCU monitors progress of the

On the other hand, the State Plan for

for Aviation activity in Malta, abides

corrective actions as agreed with

Aviation Safety in Malta (SPAS) is the

with

EASA.

planning document containing the

regulations regarding aviation, and

strategic direction of a State for the

in its absence refers to National

management of aviation safety for

legislation. International Standards

a set period. This plan contains the

and recommended practices are

The EASA UAS regulation came

actions identified in the European

also considered when conducting

into force on the 31st of December

Plan for Aviation Safety (EPAS)

its

operational

2020, and thus, work was carried

and lists national safety issues with

function. EC regulation mandates

out to ensure that the tasks required

respective SPI’s and SPT’s to help

that

regulatory

to be done by the Member States

address identified safety deficiencies

authority creates its own internal

were completed. The regulation

and maintain/achieve an acceptable

compliance monitoring function as

required Member States to define

highly

European

oversight each

and aviation

Commission

Drones

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

zones restricted for UAS operations.

conditions. Additionally, TM-CAD

To this effect, TM-CAD contacted

was also approached by several

various local entities to define these

local and international organisations

zones. In order to be compliant

interested in setting up business in

with the regulation requirements,

Malta and provided assistance in this

TM-CAD also launched an online

regard.

drone

management

tmcad.idronect.com,

system, whereby

UAS operators can register and submit flight requests to obtain flight authorisations. Prior to launching this system, TM-CAD conducted extensive internal testing, both on

There has been a high number of Drone Registrations in 2021, and 6,500 flights were submitted and approved.

the software as well as the hardware trackers which may be provided for specific flight requests. TM-CAD also

Flight Operations Inspectorate

launched an online training course as required by EASA to enable

The Flight Operations Inspectorate

remote pilots to obtain an A1/A3

certified 6 new Operators in 2021,

certification, which is also providing

with a total of 41 Air Operating

examinations for both A1/A3 as well

Certificate (AOC) holders at the end

as A2 subcategories. Moreover, TM-

of October 2021.

CAD is engaged in raising awareness and promoting the EASA regulations.

In addition to the certification of new

TM-CAD also had discussions with

AOCs, the inspectorate processed

local insurance companies in order

94 additions of aircraft requested

to assist with offering insurance to

by existing certificate holders. The

local UAS operators. Furthermore,

inspectorate conducted 291 audits,

TM-CAD also assisted organisations

which resulted in 592 findings.

interested in providing training for remote pilots by reviewing their

The Inspectorate continued with

manuals and course material. To this

its monitoring of aircraft operators

end, TM-CAD also cooperated with

certified in Malta in its effort to

Malta Enterprise and assigned an

promote

area where practical flight training

addition, the Inspectorate continues

may take place under the specified

to promulgate safety information

42 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

and

ensure safety. In

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

through Operations Advisory Notices

Part-CAMO approvals and issuing 6

and biannual meetings with the

full Part-CAMO approvals. The AI is

Operators

through

Flight

also transitioning the only Part-M.F

Operations

Consultation

Group,

approved organisation to Part-CAO.

the

which is managed by the Flight Operations Inspectorate.

The issued

Airworthiness various

Inspectorate

guidelines

and

Airworthiness Inspectorate

exemptions pursuant to Art. 71 of the

Safety Oversight

Basic Regulation EU no. 1139/2018 related to airworthiness certification,

The

Airworthiness

Inspectorate

to enable the operators to continue

(AI) carried out around 105 on-site

operating

audits of Part-CAMO, Part-CAO

pandemic restrictions.

organisations,

Part-145

within

the

COVID-19

aircraft

maintenance organisations, and Part-

Aircraft Registration

147 aircraft maintenance training and

examination

organisations.

These audits are conducted as part of the biannual audit plan for every approved organisation, as well as required audits due to changes in the organisations. The

Airworthiness

inspectorate

also conducted more than 103 desktop reviews of manuals and documentation

for

approval

acceptance. The AI continued the transition of all CAMO’s from PartM.G to Part-CAMO, finalising two

44 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

The Malta National Aircraft Register reached 618 aircraft as at the end of November, 2021. A total of 138 aircraft have been registered.

The Aircraft register has been very dynamic, mainly due to the advent of two low-cost operators, Lauda Europe and Malta Air, as well as movement of aircraft from

international lessors following repossessions of aircraft, mainly airliners resulting from the global pandemic situation. This shows continued trust and good reputation of the Maltese jurisdiction as an aircraft register within the EU.

The breakdown of registered aircraft type is as follows:

Aircraft type

No. Registered

Airliner

Large business jet

Medium sized business jet

Small business jet

Helicopter

Light aircraft

Commuter aircraft (regional)

Very light jet

Microlight

TOTAL

138

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Number of Aircraft on the Malta Aircraft Register/Year 2021 by end November

Certification of Aircraft

Certificates Issue of Certificate of Airworthiness

131

Issue of Noise Certificate

144

Issue/Renewal of Airworthiness Review Certificate

205

Issue of EASA Permit to Fly

Issue of National Permit to Fly

Issue of Export Conformity Statements

The total number of certificates issued was 566 and 560 Certificates were issued pursuant to EU Regulations, whereas 6 were pursuant to Air Navigation Order Requirements. 122 Mode S addresses and 67 406MHz ELT codes were issued in 2021

46 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Aircraft Continuing Airworthiness Monitoring (ACAM) This is a mandatory sampling programme of aircraft inspections based on safety risk assessment.

The Airworthiness Inspectorate conducted more than 70 aircraft inspections in 2021. These inspections include inspections of aircraft during maintenance, airworthiness reviews, technical records reviews, and ramp inspections. COVID-19 restrictions have impacted the capability to perform a normal number of inspections, however, this is offset by reduced air traffic. The number of inspections

48 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

amounts to 11% of the number of aircraft in the ACAM programme, which was 630 by the end of 2021. Organisation Approvals Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisations (CAMO)

The total number of Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisations has risen to 53. This includes 7 new CAMOs as part of the 6 new AOCs issued in 2021 and one independent CAMO.

Aircraft Maintenance Licences The Airworthiness Inspectorate issued the following Part-66 aircraft maintenance licences: Part-66 AML Initial Issue

Category A1

Category B1.1

Category B2

Part-66 Variations

110

Part-66 AML Renewals

The AI issued 52 new Part-66 aircraft maintenance licenses. The Total number of Part-66 Aircraft Maintenance Lisenses as at mid-December of 2021 is 512. Part-66 Basic Modules Examinations A total of 21 Part-66 AML Module Examinations at B1.1 and B2 level were held in conjunction with MCAST.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

50 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Captain Charles Pace D i r e c t o r G e n e r a l f o r C i v i l Av i a t i o n A n d C h i e f O f f i c e r C i v i l Av i a t i o n D i r e c t o r a t e

9H MALTA – THE MALTA AIRCRAFT REGISTER DURING THE LAST SIX YEARS, THE MALTA AIRCRAFT REGISTER HAS YET AGAIN SEEN AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF REGISTERED AIRCRAFT. ONE OF THE REASONS FOR THIS GROWTH CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO MALTA’S WISE DECISION TO ACCEDE TO THE CAPE TOWN CONVENTION AND OPT FOR AN OPERATOR’S REGISTER RATHER THAN AN OWNER’S REGISTER, WHICH MEANS THAT RATHER THAN ATTRACTING AIRCRAFT OWNERS IT ATTRACTS AIRCRAFT OPERATORS, CHARTER AND ACMI OPERATORS, AS WELL AS FULLY-FLEDGED AIRLINES.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

This fact also attributes to the exponential

increase

since

the

Aircraft Registration Act was put in place back in 2010. In the meantime, the Civil Aviation Directorate within Transport Malta is being beefed up to keep up with the regulatory framework that was put in place at the time, a-need-to-be-ongoing process if Malta wants to keep up with current demand for aviation-related services. The Civil Aviation Directorate already provides a one-stop-shop for clients, with a number of experienced technical staff employed with it who are able to guide aircraft owners and managers through any inquiries that clients and prospective clients might have.

The Aircraft Registration Act

with the new law were carried out

the one hand and issue Air Operator

so that on the one hand it ensured

Certificates on the other, in terms of

The Malta Registration Act, enacted

better protection of holders of rights

the European Union Aviation Safety

in 2010, provides for the registration

and interests in aircraft engines

Agency (EASA) for fixed winged and

of both private and commercial

while on the other it provided for an

helicopter airplanes.

aircraft engaged in the provision

enhanced legal framework which

of air transport services. The law

would improve support for the needs

Malta’s 9H Aircraft Registry is being

also allows for the possibility of

of the ever-evolving sector.

recognised as an aviation service

registration of aircraft with the Maltese Aircraft Register while the aircraft is still being built or even

provider and is rapidly becoming a

A Proven Safety Track Record

favourable aircraft maintenance base with facilities for major international

when it is temporarily not being

companies. Malta is also promoting

operated or is not in service. This fact

Prior to the 2010 Aircraft Registration

the development of an aviation

allows for even more flexibility and

Act, Malta was still maintaining a

cluster business for a fully integrated

a higher level of service in the case

service setup, not just for aircraft

where registered aircraft are still

which takes us back almost 50

registration. Being a signatory to

under construction.

years, to the extent that it has always

major aviation-related conventions,

maintained an established and proven

Malta has a strong regulatory

The eligibility for the inclusion of

regime that enables it to preserve

framework that is highly sensitive

such aircraft in the Malta Aircraft

an excellent safety oversight of

to the rights of secured lenders

Registry was addressed by means

aviation-related

and provides effective remedies for

of a number of amendments to the

the

Aircraft Registration Act in 2016,

technical personnel employed by

their rights.

now referred to as the Registration

the Civil Aviation Directorate which

(Amended) Act. The series of

give the latter the capacity to certify

Over the past six years, registration

amendments which came into force

operators of commercial aircraft on

of aircraft in the Maltese Aircraft

54 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

activities.

The

immediate

enforcement

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

shift their operation from the carriage

of operators who have shown an

growth such that by the end of

of passengers to the transportation

interest in providing such possibilities.

November 2021, the number of

of cargo and demand for this

aircraft listed with the Malta Aircraft

increased substantially over the past

twelve months.

138 aircraft having been registered as at the end of November 2021 whilst the number of Air Operating

Fractional ownership – a growing trend

Why is 9H registering Growth? Registering an aircraft with the Malta Aircraft Register provides a number

Certificate (AOC) holders exceeded From its inception, the Malta Aircraft

of advantages to the company

Registration Act has always catered

operating the respective aircraft,

Worldwide, COVID-19 has massively

for the possibility of a number of

both in terms of the legislative

disrupted the aviation sector, but at

persons jointly owning a percentage

framework as well as in terms of

the same time, this brought about

of a particular aircraft. In recent years,

the infrastructural set up of the

other opportunities which usually

this eventuality has seemed to be

Civil Aviation Department within

arise in such circumstances; an

a growing trend and more recently,

Transport Malta. Apart from this,

example of which is the parking

private individuals have been seeking

Malta also offers attractive conditions

of aircraft which are not being

to invest and become part-owners

for foreign companies operating from

operated, including those not being

of an aircraft. It is being predicted

Malta, in line with its clear strategic

on the Malta Aircraft Register. The

that this trend would increase in the

political vision supporting business,

pandemic forced several airlines to

near future since there are a number

the aviation industry, and its clusters.

40 at the end of the same year.

56 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Apart from a robust legislative

Convention on International Interests

and management of that aircraft. This

framework and an extensive network

in Mobile Equipment and its Aircraft

provision is also a reason why we are

of Double Taxation Agreements,

Protocol, facilitating the acquisition

seeing a growth in business.

in terms of taxation, competitive

of aircraft and granting extensive

minimum depreciation periods for

powers to secured lenders to

aircraft and aircraft equipment are

enforce their rights.

Aircraft Leasing Another section within the aviation

in place. The Aircraft Register also provides for the possibility of broad

On the other hand, the Article 83

sector that Malta is promoting is

registration possibilities for aircraft

agreements under the Convention on

Aircraft Leasing, and for this aim,

not being used in commercial

International Civil Aviation, provides

the Maltese Government has a

transport. The Aircraft Register also

the necessary framework whereby

long-term commitment in place to

provides more visibility of rights and

an aircraft which is registered in

develop Malta into a global aircraft

interests in aircraft and recognises

one jurisdiction, and which hence

leasing and financial hub, creating

fractional ownership of aircraft, a

is responsible for the registration

new employment opportunities for

trend which is on the increase.

of a particular aircraft, a separate

specialists and further building on

aviation

its well-established financial and

authority

another

Malta is also a signatory to and

jurisdiction can now be responsible

implementor of the Cape Town

for overseeing the actual operation

aviation sectors.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

To this end, the Aircraft Registration Act provides robust regulatory framework to promote the business of aircraft leasing. The framework provides for: •

More visibility of rights and

•

interests in aircraft. •

No withholding tax on lease

the

payments where the lessor is

operation of aircraft used

not a tax resident of Malta.

for international transport,

Encourages the develop ment

finance

and

does not constitute a taxable •

Competitive

operating leases of aircraft

depreciation

and provides clear rules

aircraft.

fringe benefit.

minimum periods

for •

Implements the provisions of the Cape Town Convention

on the tax treatment of The private use of an aircraft

on International Interests in

available tax deductions to

by an individual who is not

Mobile Equipment and its

finance lessors, and capital

a resident of Malta and is

Aircraft

allowances for lessees.

granting secured lenders, a

employer/company/

higher degree of protection

the

finance

charge

and

•

an •

ownership/leasing/

Broader

registration

possibilities.

Employee/officer

partnership,

whose

business activities include

Protocol

and more effective remedies whilst

allowing

borrowing costs.

58 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

thereby

lower

Services Malta also offers a very efficient, skilled,

and

The Directorate offers a wide

Last but not least, in Malta, operating

range

companies have the availability of

services,

including,

amongst others:

a wide range of aviation services, which range from aircraft and engine

cost-effective

multi-lingual workforce, where

•

Aircraft Registration;

maintenance, repair and overhaul

a number of specialised legal

•

Air Operator Certification;

to software development, aircraft

companies are available to assist

•

Continuing

management, aircraft maintenance

companies in the registration of aircraft with the Malta Aircraft

•

airworthiness

management organisation;

training, and a number of other

Aircraft

ancillary support services.

maintenance

organisation approval;

Aerodrome licensing;

On its part, the Civil Aviation

•

Air navigation services’

Directorate also provides a wide

•

Pilot Training Organisations’ Approval;

range of services, including the licensing of air operators. The

•

Licensing

aviation

Directorate operates under a

personnel, including flight

business-oriented environment

crew and air traffic control officers; and

and provides an efficient and prompt service when required.

•

Aircraft maintenance training Organisation approvals.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

The Aircraft Registration Act at a Glance

60 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

and provides clear rules Aim: To regulate: •

the registration of aircraft

•

and aircraft mortgages; •

the aircraft register;

•

the

•

recordation

enforcement mortgages

aircraft

and

•

other

interests in aircraft; •

the special privileges on

•

the

ranking

secured •

creditors; and •

which is under construction

finance charge and available

or is temporarily not being

tax deductions to finance

operated or managed;

lessors,

and

capital

Broader

satisfies the conditions that

registration

may be prescribed; and

No withholding tax on lease not a tax resident of Malta.

reservation agreement which

Competitive

satisfies the conditions which

minimum periods

aircraft.

is authorised to operate the

The private use of an aircraft

aircraft.

a resident of Malta and is

the aircraft protocol and its

interface with domestic law.

Employee/officer

employer/company/

fractional

Aircraft used in air service

ownership/leasing/

•

The Government of Malta.

operation of aircraft used

•

A citizen of Malta or a citizen

for international transport,

of a Member State of the EU,

Widening

does not constitute a taxable

an EEA State, or Switzerland,

fringe benefit.

having a place of residence

registration

mplements the provisions of

or business in Malta, the EU,

the Cape Town Convention

the EEA, or Switzerland,

used for air service; and Permitted

registration

•

de-registration

on International Interests in

including a person sharing

and export power of attorney

Mobile Equipment and its

the ownership of such aircraft

and other special power of

Aircraft

by virtue of the community

attorney granted as security.

granting secured lenders a

irrevocable •

whose

ownership of aircraft; possibilities for aircraft not •

Persons Qualified Register Aircraft in Malta

business activities include the

•

may be prescribed, and who

for

by an individual who is not

A buyer of an aircraft under a conditional sale or title

Cape Town Convention and

Recognition

•

payments where the lessor is

the implementation of the

New Concepts introduced:

An operator of an aircraft under a temporary title who

partnership,

•

allowances for lessees.

depreciation

aircraft;

An owner of an aircraft

on the tax treatment of the

possibilities.

and

•

Protocol

thereby

acquests

subsisting

higher degree of protection

between such person

Advantages under the new Law

and more effective remedies

a citizen as described above

and related Legislation:

whilst

in whose name the aircraft is

allowing

lower

registered.

borrowing costs. • •

•

More visibility of rights and interests in aircraft. Encourages

Who May Register Aircraft:

operating leases of aircraft,

undertaking

formed

and existing in accordance with the laws of Malta, of a

the

development of finance and

and

•

An owner of the aircraft who

Member State of the EU, of an

operates the said aircraft;

EEA State, or of Switzerland

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

and having its registered

other country approved by

attached to the aircraft as

office, central administration

the Minister by notice for the

well as any replacement

and

purposes of the Act (termed

engines

business within Malta, the

“International Registrant” in the

registrant to the extent that

EU, the EEA, or Switzerland,

Act), provided it:

they are designated for use

principal

place

whereof not less than 50% of

the

on the aircraft.

has legal capacity to own/ •

The name and address of the

the undertaking is owned and

operate an aircraft in terms

is effectively controlled by the

of law;

registrant in what capacity

appoints a local resident

the registrant has registered

Government of Malta, by any

Member State of the EU, or

agent

represent

the aircraft.

the •

The details of any mortgages

by persons referred to above,

owner in Malta for matters

whether directly or indirectly

concerning the registration

registered on the aircraft and

through

of the aircraft; and

subsequently all registrable

one

intermediate undertakings.

complies

with

transactions relating to the

applicable

mortgages.

regulations/guidelines. •

Private aircraft •

owned

A natural person who is a citizen of, or has an undertaking established

Information Entered in the National Aircraft Register Mandatory entries in the register

Development

any

power

attorney, or other power owner or to a lessor of an aircraft, or granted by way of

for Economic Co-operation and

de-registration

of attorney granted to an

member

country of the Organisation

The details of any irrevocable

•

62 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

The physical details of the

security to the mortgagee,

aircraft and the engines

or to a third party, granting

powers

relating

the

any part, appurtenance, or

due to the Director General

a seller reserving ownership

arising under applicable law

of the register on behalf of the

rights on an aircraft or on any

of Malta in respect of the

registrant. Permitted entries

part thereof may register his

the aircraft, or to the closure

aircraft; •

interest in the registration of

The ownership rights of the

the aircraft.

of their employment on the

a lessee having rights to an

aircraft;

when held by a trustee, by one or more owners, when divided into fractional shares, or held under an agreement

aircraft or any part thereof.

•

rights

or under conditions

repair or preservation of the aircraft to the extent of the service performed on and

•

value added to the aircraft; •

relation to the aircraft or an

• granted by a chargor under a

the aircraft to the extent of

engine.

security agreement;

the service performed on and

The details of the resident

• vested in a person who is the

agent where the registrant is

conditional seller under a title

an international registrant.

reservation agreement; or

salvage in respect of the

Information

• vested in a person who is the lessor

aircraft. Registrable privileges

any

value added to the aircraft; •

Wages and expenses for

interest

under a leasing agreement. The

registered in the International

relevant proper law determines

Registry, and the debtor

whether an interest is characterised

enjoy the preference and

thereof.

as any of the above-mentioned

status of such right in relation

Any charge or reservation of

interest.

to the aircraft only if the claim

which, once registered •

rights prior to the registration

Special Privileges on Aircraft

of the aircraft or a person authorised by them;

of a mortgage. Super-priority privileges –

Security Aspects in the National Aircraft Register:

in the International Registry,

is created by the owner

ownership rights or lessee

•

Taxes, duties, and/or levies due

•

the

Government

Judicial costs incurred in

of Malta in respect of the

respect of the sale of the

aircraft; and

• A mortgage.

aircraft and the distribution

• Prior to the registration of a

mortgage:

pursuant to the enforcement

The expenses incurred for the repair or preservation of

The lessee/lessor rights in

international

•

An interest in airframes, aircraft engines, or helicopters which is:

affecting title.

Any debt due to the holder of a possessory lien for the

International Interests Governed in the Register:

with reservation of ownership

•

Wages due to crew in respect

in the register. aircraft or an engine, including

•

Fees and other charges

accessory of an aircraft.

exercise of rights relating to

•

the

proceeds

thereof

any creditor may register

of any mortgage or other

his privilege or charge on

executive title;

•

Wages and expenses for assistance or recovery in respect of the aircraft.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

THE MALTA AVIATION CONFERENCE AND EXPO (MACE) 2021 REBOOTING THE INDUSTRY

64 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Peter Paul Barbara - DirectorSpecial Projects within the Office of t h e D e p u t y C h i e f E xe c u t i v e O f f i c e r and Chief Operating Officer – Tr a n s p o r t M a l t a

he third edition of the Malta

It was obvious that MACE 2021 had

Aviation Conference and Expo

to look at ways of how to restore the

(MACE) 2021 kicked off on the 26

aviation sector as it was back in the

of October with a very timely theme,

pre-pandemic period, now that the

Rebooting the Industry. The three-day

industry is slowly recovering after it

conference welcomed to Malta some

was ravaged for almost two years.

of the most inspirational experts

All of this is to be done while taking

in the aviation industry amid panel

into account the current challenges

discussions, keynote speeches, and

relating most particularly to carbon

networking events.

emissions as well as technology advancements and demand.

MACE, which was founded by Novargo, The Concept Stadium,

This year’s edition hosted over 35

and the DC-Aviation Group, saw its

local and international speakers,

beginnings with the first edition of the

including the Minister for Transport,

conference and expo being held in

Infrastructure and Capital Projects,

2019. Although in 2020 the COVID-19

Hon. Dr Ian Borg, the Chairman and

pandemic shook the global aviation

CEO of Transport Malta, Mr Joseph

industry to its foundations, MACE

Bugeja, the Director General for

2020 defied the odds and brought

Civil Aviation within Transport Malta,

the aviation industry together, online

Capt. Charles Pace, Former NASA

and in a virtual space, to get an

Scientist, Dr Anita Sengupta, UK-

overview of the prevailing situation

based travel vlogger and reviewer

and the future sustainability of

Noel Philips, amongst other high-

the sector.

profile speakers. The main partner

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

for this years’ edition was Transport

Minister Borg said that the aviation

Malta.

sector remains one of Malta’s main pillars

and

contributes

towards

Addressing the conference, Minister

sustainable economic growth. He

for Transport, Infrastructure and

said, however, that it is an accepted

Capital Projects, Hon. Minister Dr

fact that this sector can only grow

Ian Borg said that with MACE being

if supported by a well-trained

Malta’s largest aviation conference,

workforce and to this end, a study

“it is our privilege to host this myriad

has been commissioned so that for

of industry experts, where MACE

the first time, the direct and indirect

is the perfect platform to target

employment situation in the aviation

and attract keynote speakers and

sector can be accurately measured.

potential investments for further

Through this study, the skills and

growth in this industry. The Maltese

shortfalls that the Maltese Aviation

Government,

Civil

sector may have, which could

Aviation Directorate within Malta’s

through

the

become a barrier to growth in the

aviation regulator Transport Malta, is

medium to long-term scenario, may

proud to assist this prestigious event

be identified.

as main sponsor.” Minister Borg continued saying that,

The Minister said that

“our commitment is to ensure the sustainable and long-term growth of the aviation sector as we are seeking to establish guidelines to measure the

“THE AVIATION INDUSTRY DIRECTLY

impact of the growing aviation sector

EMPLOYED 5,112 PERSONS IN 2019, WITH AIR

in Malta.”

TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNTING FOR 39% OF

He said that the aviation sector has grown rapidly over the last

THAT EMPLOYMENT, FOLLOWED BY CARGO HANDLING PROVIDING 24%, SERVICE ACTIVITIES

few years and hence it is crucial

WHICH PROVIDED 19%, AND REPAIR AND

that the necessary efforts are

MAINTENANCE WITH THE REMAINING 18%.

made to truly assess its economic

FULL-TIME JOBS ACCOUNTED FOR 97.5% OF

impact and try to establish the

ALL EMPLOYMENT IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY,

real contribution it gives to the

WITH EMPLOYEES WITH A POST-SECONDARY

local economy. “The

Government

EDUCATION MAKING UP THE MAJORITY OF needs

THE INDUSTRY’S WORKFORCE WITH 71.4%. WE

understand the optimum level of

CONSTANTLY SEEK TO SET THE BAR HIGHER,

activities and wealth that the sector

MOVE FORWARD, AND MAKE SURE THAT

can create, and which activities

QUALITY DOES NOT COME TO A HALT. IT IS

are best suited to our economical,

WITH THIS PREMISE IN MIND THAT WE ASPIRE

geographic, and social dimension,

TO ATTRACT MORE INVESTMENTS TOWARDS

with the objective of keeping the aviation sector sustainable for years

OUR COUNTRY.”

to come.”

66 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Dr Borg said that Malta’s aviation register, 9H, is one of the fastestgrowing registers in Europe, showing that the most influential aviation leaders are looking at Malta to continue expanding their services. He said that presently, around 600 aircraft have been registered with 9H Malta, and the Government is committed

continue

building

on this growth. He also said that conferences like MACE are an excellent healthy

opportunity dialogue,

foster

collaboration,

and the sharing of best practices to expand on the current horizons. Most importantly, he said, MACE will provide the right platform to deliberate on the way forward, especially after a crucial time brought about by the COVID pandemic, and, “the Maltese Government is committed to offer a supportive shoulder in order to help aviation get back on its feet and continue achieving great results and continuous economic growth.” Dr Borg said that the Government had promised to develop a Civil Aviation

Policy

for

Malta,

and

eventually, a few weeks ago, the Government launched the policy for public consultation, which policy covers both medium to long-term objectives intended to drive Malta’s aviation sector towards a more sustainable growth until 2030. “The Policy is geared towards reaping the best possible share of the forecasted global aviation growth and seeks to ensure that throughout the coming nine years, the Maltese aviation sector not only manages to recover from the backlash of the

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

COVID-19 pandemic but continues to develop and prosper. The policy identifies over 20 objectives that will, among others, help enhance the economic benefits deriving from a thriving civil aviation sector, exploit the potential of new and emerging sectors, strengthen the critical role

the challenges brought about by

of aviation in terms of connectivity

the pandemic, the aviation sector

with continental land masses, and

is managing to move forward, and

tackle pre-existing conditions such

that this conference came around

as congestion and carbon footprint.”

in a timely period when the sector has just started to recover. He said

Minister Borg concluded that the

that the conference provides an

Government’s vision for the Maltese

opportunity to discuss how to build

does make Malta an ideal base

aviation sector is dependent on the

upon Malta’s decade of success in

for shipping, maritime activities,

collaboration and involvement of all

its vibrant aviation industry and that it

civil aviation, and the associated

aviation stakeholders – both public

is the pleasure of Transport Malta to

ancillary services, “nevertheless, I

and private – and hence, towards the

be the main partner of MACE, which

honestly think that the foundation

end, he encouraged all of the aviation

in turn will provide an opportunity for

of everything we have achieved

stakeholders

and

the industry to meet, discuss, and

today as a nation is due to our natural

provide their feedback through the

“share our thoughts, experiences,

ability to adapt to the prevailing

public consultation exercise.

and opinions on how to build upon

circumstances and acting swiftly

our success.”

Malta Celebrates a Decade of Maltese Aviation Jurisdiction as Transport Malta teams up with MACE

but smartly to seize opportunities

As the main partner of this event,

in the markets. Our thriving Maltese

Transport Malta will try to ensure that

aviation sector and the creation of

MACE remains a calendar event for

an aviation framework, aimed at

the Malta Aviation sector for many

enhancing aircraft registration and

years to come.

aircraft operator licensing, is a prime

The delegates of MACE were also

Mr Bugeja said that Malta’s success

welcomed by the Chairman and

as an Island nation has always

The Chairman and CEO of Transport

CEO of Transport Malta, Mr Joseph

depended on exploiting its coveted

Malta said that although Malta has a

Bugeja, who opened his address

geographic location. Being located

long-standing aviation infrastructure,

by saying that notwithstanding all

in the centre of the Mediterranean

the major breakthrough in Malta’s

contribute

example of this”

68 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

aviation sector came about in 2010

Mr. Bugeja told the audience that

In addition to the increase in AOCs

with the enactment of the Aircraft

“today, our aviation register has

that Malta has issued, the business

Registration Act. Such legislation, he

grown almost five-fold since its

jet sector has also seen a steady

said, aimed to replicate the success

inception in 2010, with over 600 craft

increase over the past seven years.

achieved in ship registration in the

bearing the 9Η registration mark.

There has also been an increase in

already

sector,

More airlines, particularly larger

business jets being converted to

and helped enhance the aviation

airlines, are nowadays choosing

accommodate larger groups as well

framework on the islands.

the Maltese jurisdiction. This is

as a notable increase in cargo jets

thriving

aviation

testament to the excellent reputation

as cargo transportation shifted from

“The introduction and updating of

the Maltese jurisdiction has managed

commercial flights to cargo flights

legislation provided the necessary

to build within the aviation sector.”

due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

the Aviation Malta cluster, which

He said that the aviation industry

Mr Bugeja reiterated that for Malta to

I consider as one of the major

is one of the sectors hit hardest by

stay at the forefront of the industry,

contributors

impetus that enabled the onset of

status

the ongoing consequences of the

it had to move quickly to take

as a successful aviation centre,

Malta’s

COVID-19 pandemic, threatening to

advantage of the nation’s ability to

particularly in the aircraft registration

reverse some of the progress that

adapt and quickly implement cutting

sector. As at the end of 2010, the

has been achieved throughout the

edge legislation that takes account of

Malta national aircraft register had 92

past few years. Although the industry

the needs of clients in the near future;

aircraft registered, 17 of which were

has suffered in terms of commercial

“We also wanted to ensure that the

newly registered craft.”

travel, Malta has seen an increase in

regulatory framework for companies

companies choosing to apply for an

registered

AOC under Malta’s jurisdiction. Firmly

competitive as it grants access to the

supported by the Government, Malta

EUs Internal Market for Aviation.”

Malta

remains

has also managed to stay strong and in fact managed to register 180 new

The Chairman and CEO concluded

aircraft in the past year.

his address by saying that today, the brand Aviation Malta has become the hallmark of service excellence, reliability, and most importantly, represents

confidence

the

jurisdiction that is highly cherished by both the owners and the industry at large.

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MACE - a Carbon Neutral Conference

This year MACE was supported by:

as Supporting Partners, Epic for

Novargo, The Concept Stadium, DC

Business as Official Telecom Partner,

Aviation Group as Founding Partner,

FBO Experience, Fifty Sky Shades,

In support of the industry’s social

Transport Malta as the Main Partner,

Business Airport International, Malta

responsibility and commitment for a

the Malta Tourism Authority as

Business, Aviation Pulse and Aviation

greener future, the MACE organisers

Strategic Partner, Enemed, Emperor

Malta as Media Partners, and was

wanted to go an extra green mile

Aviation,

under the patronage of the Malta

and make the Conference and

Equals Money, Grant Thornton as

Expo completely carbon neutral.

Silver Partner, Aviowiki, Satcom

Together with its supporting partners

Direct, Malta International Airport,

Carbon

Collins

TradeXchange

(CTX),

MedAire,

Aerospace,

Dronamics,

Flypeople,

MACE managed to offset 100% of

AP Malta Limited, Maintenance

the expected carbon emissions

Centre Malta, KPMG, MAMO TCV

that were generated through this

Advocates, 3PLEX Group, Carbon

conference.

TradeXchange

70 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

and

DACOBY

Business Aviation Association.

THE BRAND AVIATION MALTA HAS BECOME THE HALLMARK OF SERVICE EXCELLENCE, RELIABILITY, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, REPRESENTS CONFIDENCE IN THE JURISDICTION THAT IS HIGHLY CHERISHED BY BOTH THE OWNERS AND THE INDUSTRY AT LARGE.

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Charlot Saliba Manager Tr a f f i c C o n t r o l C e n t r e Enforcement Directorate

THE TRAFFIC CONTROL CENTRE

The Traffic Control Centre (“TCC”) was founded by Transport Malta in 2016 and is located within the A3 towers in Paola. The Unit started its functions with a complete team of officers from the 25th of September 2017 and was later inaugurated by Minister Ian Borg in November 2017.

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urrently there are sixteen (16) regional traffic

These messages guide drivers to take alternative routes

controllers working within the TCC unit, who operate

or inform them of accidents or hazards on the road ahead.

on a 24/7 basis and are split into a number of shifts. Controllers respond to incidents and emergencies by The primary focus of the TCC is to oversee the flow of

communicating with the TM officers and Police workforce,

traffic and assist in instances where congestion is detected

and despatching ambulances or recovery trucks as

in arterial and distributor roads. Traffic management is

required. TCC controllers also despatch TM’s motorbike

very important to address road congestion which can be

mounted officers (Rapid Intervention Unit) to assist in

caused by several occurrences such as heavy traffic, road

the clearing of road sections when needed, in a bid to

works, or other infrastructural projects. The Unit working

intervene in the most efficient manner and to avoid delays

within the TCC strives to immediately respond to incident

where possible.

reports when their assistance is requested. In order to effectively conduct their work, TCC controllers The Regional Traffic controllers use various components

communicate with various other units and agencies

to assist in the management of traffic by following remotely

by sharing information and collaborating in the overall

from the control centre. The CCTVs which are strategically

management of the road system. TCC in fact works closely

located in various road sections within the network give the

with Transport Malta’s Enforcement Unit, the Police,

controllers real-time information while the use of VHF radio

Civil Protection, the Cleansing Department, and other

assists in quick despatch when needed by TM officers on

Governmental entities.

the field. In the future, in collaboration with Infrastructure Malta, we

THERE ARE CURRENTLY 40 CAMERAS INSTALLED AROUND MALTA AND TM IS IN PROCESS TO INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL 100 CAMERAS TO INCREASE VISIBILITY WHERE NEEDED. CCTV REAL-TIME FOOTAGE IS RECORDED AND STORED WITHIN THE PARAMETERS OF THE CURRENT REGULATIONS FOR EVENTUAL USE, IF AT ALL. When congestion or accidents are detected, the controllers within the Centre use the variable message signs (more widely referred to as VMSs) stationed at various locations across Malta to notify drivers of any upcoming obstacles.

are adding several cameras so we can have more visibility on the roads. Also, we are focusing to implement the analytics system where by the intelligence of the cameras, the traffic flow may be detected. When heavy traffic occurs, it will automatically be detected, and a regional traffic controller will take all necessary actions. The TCC and the IT department are working to implement the automation on the VMSs from the analytics of the camera. This function of the camera can send a message on the VMSs automatically so the drivers who are on the road will be aware of any heavy traffics. The unit is also responsible for ensuring that all systems and equipment remains in good working order, and therefore several system checks are frequently undertaken together with numerous onsite inspections.

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Laura Sue Mallia Director Risk Management, Policy and EU Affairs Strategy and Corporate Services Directorate

HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY TO REDUCE TRANSPORTRELATED EMISSIONS: THE CASE OF VALLETTA

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Parking infrastructure and availability is a nationwide subject of concern. In Valletta, the matter is of increased sensitivity, also due to its historical importance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Controlled Vehicular Access (CVA) system was introduced in 2007 to limit traffic entering Valletta. This was coupled with extensive pedestrianisation in the central areas of the city, close to the major shopping area. A parking scheme was also introduced in 2007 to secure parking for residents, further limiting the parking available for workers, shoppers, and visitors. Thus, in addition to the physical limitations of the walled city, such schemes further limited the relatively few parking spaces. Car drivers today access Valletta and cruise for a considerable amount of time to try and find a parking space. This causes congestion, pollution, and an excessive waste of resources and time. Parking management is vital in dealing with problems caused by car traffic. With the aim of improving air quality within Valletta, a pilot project has been implemented where the public is informed of parking availability prior to entering the city. A smart parking system, funded through the Civitas DESTINATIONS Project, has been implemented in the Hastings Parking area. The system consists of sensors, cameras, wireless technology, servers, and software able to

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

manage the demand and supply

not. The real-time information is

for further extensions to the system

of parking. The upper area, where

transmitted to a VMS installed at Triq

in the future, both in Valletta and in

permitted works are constrained

San Mark, visible from the Valletta

other localities.

due to cultural heritage, a camera

ring road. Commuters arriving in

system has been installed. The

Valletta thus have the facility of

cameras map the area, refreshing

heading straight to the parking area

to support the CO2 reduction

every

where

when parking is shown as available

policy, a study which and enhances

through the coverage of the marked

or avoiding going into this area and

the smart parking system within

parked spaces, parking availability is

looking for alternative sites when the

Valletta has been carried out under

determined. The cameras in use do

parking area is full.

the

30-60

seconds,

In further harnessing technology

same

Civitas

Destinations

Project. Implemented on the roads

not capture footage but solely map This project has been implemented

approaching the city, the project was

by the Valletta Local Council, with

developed on a two-fold approach

In the lower and middle parking

the collaboration and support of

to monitor and control emissions. A

areas, a system of sensors has been

Transport Malta and the University

system of ANPR cameras have been

installed on the ground surface,

of Malta. The technologies tested

installed in Floriana in streets which

where availability is determined

have the potential to inform the

act as the entry points to Valletta, in

based on whether the sensor is

effectiveness

order to monitor vehicles’ entry in

covered (with a parked vehicle) or

parking management technologies

and exit from the identified zone. This

the area.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

and

efficiency

system, previously untested in Malta,

projects have shown the potential of

focuses on emissions based on the

curtailing CO2 in the Valletta Region,

vehicle type where cameras capture

where available technologies can

the number plate and through this

impact the environmental burden

and VERA, the vehicle type as EURO

standard is obtained.

heavily based on private car modes.

transport

systems

that

are

Through excluding the most polluting Vehicles’ data was collected for the

vehicles in the fleet, emissions can be

period January – October 2020 and

effectively reduced in the city. Valletta

despite the impact of the COVID-19

attracts high levels of traffic as the

pandemic on traffic levels, a good

islands’ main centre of activities, and

sample was obtained in order to

the impact of measures that reduce

estimate the potential CO2 reduction.

the traffic load have an impact within

Two scenarios were drawn up, with

Valletta and beyond it.

the exclusion of EURO1 to EURO3 vehicles

estimated

remove

almost 200,000g of CO2, and the exclusion of EURO1 to EURO4 vehicles estimated to remove almost 3 million g of CO2. The collected data is valuable, and Transport Malta will employ this to inform further policies. Both

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Peter Paul Barbara

NEW HOSPITAL SHIP WHICH WILL TREAT PEOPLE IN AFRICA WILL CARRY MALTESE MARITIME FLAG REGISTRATION TAXES WAIVED BY TRANSPORT MALTA FOR THIS VESSEL

80 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

a country to contribute to this good cause.” Mercy Ships has been set up since 1978, with more than 42 thousand professionals training in medical procedures so that millions can benefit directly and indirectly from the services of the organisation. Over the years, more than 100,000 surgical procedures have been carried out on vulnerable people around the world. With billions of people around the world lacking proper access to

healthcare,

this

international

Christian charity organisation seeks M/V Global Mercy, a brand-new

The new ship was registered in

to make a difference wherever it

hospital ship, was at the Grand

Malta to continue the 40-year-old

can, harbour by harbour. Prior to

Harbour for a few hours before it took

tradition of ships belonging to this

M/V Global Mercy, the organisation

off on its journey to fulfil its mission

organisation always forming part of

always made use of used vessels

as a hospital ship in Africa. The

the Maltese Ship Registry.

and converted them to hospital ships,

Hospital Ship will carry out medical

but the M/V Global Mercy is the first

operations on it and will also give free

The Chairman and CEO of Transport

vessel to be built purposely to be

medical treatment to those without

Malta, Mr Joseph Bugeja, said

used as a Hospital Ship.

financial means or access to health

that the ship’s mission merits its

care. All the ships belonging to the

exemption from certain payments

The Global Mercy is the largest

Organisation are registered under

linked to the registration. “Malta and

civilian hospital ship to-date. It has a

the Maltese Flag. The ship made the

the Authority exempt this ship from

length of 174m, can accommodate

stop in Malta on its inaugural voyage

all registration taxes, including the

over 600 people, and has 6 operating

from

expenses of the certificates for the

theatres, 102 acute care beds, 7 ICU

crew, because it is our pleasure as

beds, and 90 self-care beds.

China,

before

proceeding

to Africa. The

Vice-President

Mercy

Ships, Jim Paterson, said that the organisation is completely financed by generous donations. This ship serves as a complete hospital at sea and has more than 1,300 volunteers from 54 countries, including Malta, acting as the crew. Patients, who are selected according to their condition, are given free treatment on board. He said that there are around 5 billion people who do not have access to decent medical services.

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THE MAKING OF THE TRAVELLERS’ MUSIC VIDEO AS PART OF TRANSPORT MALTA’S 2021 DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE CAMPAIGN Tex t – P e t e r P a u l B a r b a r a , S a b r i n a Z a h r a , P i e r r e Ve l l a Photography on set – Peter Paul Barbara

82 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

n what has become an annual campaign, the Don’t Drink and Drive road safety campaign, launched at the beginning of each December’s festive season, this year, Transport Malta and the Malta Road Safety Council have teamed up with the Maltese famed music band – The Travellers, to be the anchor for this year’s edition. It was The Travellers themselves who approached Transport Malta to discuss how the two entities could collaborate and contribute towards the promotion of road safety; an idea that Transport Malta agreed to immediately. Earlier this year, The Travellers launched their latest music album Inżul u Tlajja’, described by the Band as “a conscious effort to write about life experiences”. Most of the inspiration behind the various tracks found in the album are based on the experiences of the writer, his interpretation of events, and social issues that are affecting the younger generations today. A substantial proportion of the tracks have a realistic undertone and are based on real-life situations of the constant struggle, happiness, challenges, and achievements found in everyday life, hence the title: Inżul u Tlajja’.

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About the Album

About Siġġu Vojt (Empty Chair)

Through its various road safety campaigns, this story is exactly what Transport Malta and the Road Safety

The whole process to write and finalise the album took around 4

History tends to repeat itself. It’s like

Council want to avoid; the loss of life

years to complete, from inception

human nature fails to learn from its

and all the consequences that this

of the initial ideas for the songs,

own mistakes, especially when the

brings with it, especially on our loved

to the collaboration with various

consequences of such mistakes are

ones.

NGOs to further understand and

catastrophic.

The Music Video Production

conceptualise the social issues being It is fascinating how time makes us

referred to in the various tracks.

forget the pain and the suffering “We wanted the album to be a

The Story Board

endured or imposed on others. 1.

reflection of what life really is,

A boy experiences the death

moments of sadness but also

At times, life can be cyclical and Siġġu

of his father at the hands of a

moments

and

Vojt (Empty Chair) is that story; the

drunk driver, leaving the boy

happiness. The end result is a

story of a tragedy repeating itself

opportunity

orphan. 2.

Then the boy grows up and

13-track album, very diverse sonically,

over a lifetime. In the song, a young

with a strong social element that the

boy suffers at the hands of the

makes the same mistake the

younger generations can relate to”,

irresponsibility of another person

drunk driver did, by being

says band guitarist and songwriter

and grows up to be the man who

drunk and killing a father

Andrew Vella.

perpetuates the same suffering.

while his child was watching, leaving that child orphan

When asked about why the band writes in Maltese, lead vocalist and

The Story Behind the Song used for the Campaign

frontman Chris Gatt replied: The story is about a seven year

as well. Production Company/producer: LEVIPLUS

“From our past experience, we know

old boy who loses his dad in a car

that the younger Maltese generation

accident, and when he grows up, the

loves to identify with songs written

same boy is responsible for causing

in their mother tongue, and this

an accident involving another man,

Actors:

project will further consolidate this

after losing control of his vehicle

Ryan Galea

fact since at the end of the day, the

while driving under the influence of

Mark Mifsud

tracks in this album are all about

alcohol – it’s the story that tragically

Cassandra Spiteri

creating a personal connection with

repeats itself.

Chris Galea

the listener.”

84 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Director: Steven Levi Vella

“ the younger Maltese generation loves to identify with songs written in their mother tongue

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The following are the lyrics of the song, in the Maltese Language

Siġġu Vojt Kemm seta’ kelli, forsi xi seba’ snin, niftakar ċar, konna quddiem id-dar. Ġurnata pjuttost xitwija, b’sema iswed skur, donnu li dak il-jum, kien diġà mimli dmugħ. U għaddiet f’ħakka t’għajn bħal berqa billejl, riħa ta’ ħruq u dmija fuq ix-xufftejn. “Kellimni papà!” B’għajnejk it-tnejn miftuħin iżda ġismek mitluq, maqbud qalb il-ħadid. Qabduni minn wara u kaxkruni ’l bogħod, ommi bdiet tibki, tgħajjat, tirtgħod. U f’kemm ilni ngħidlek spiċċajna l-isptar iħeġġuni ngħid ċaw, lilek papà! Jien hawn, għalik. La tibżax, ejja nimxu din il-mixja id f’id. Inwiegħdek żgur mhux ser ninsik għax miegħek qed nagħmel patt li nħalli siġġu vojt, dejjem għalik. Kemm seta’ kelli, forsi xi tletin, tiskanta kif xi kultant jgħaddi l-ħin. Soqt id-dar waħdi bil-mija u għoxrin, wara balla xorb, u ftit drogi. U hekk f’ħakka t’għajn rajt kollox idur, niftakar hu biss li kien hemm raġel maqtul. Ibnu jwerżaq, dmija fuq ix-xufftejn, “Kellimni papà, ċaqlaq idejk!” Qabduni minn wara u kaxkruni ’l bogħod, tefgħuni ġo ċella waħdi nirtgħod. Dak it-tifel sar orfni bħalma orfni kont jien, kellu jmur fuq missieru jgħidlu dal-kliem.

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88 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

About The Travellers

4 “Lovin Music Awards” (2019) including:

Over the years, The Travellers have

•

Best Band

proven themselves to be one of the

•

Best Live Act

leading pop bands in Malta. With

•

Best Song

the release of their EP Xemx u Xita in

•

Best Performance of

2016, they amassed an impressive

the night

following with three back-to-back hit singles: Sempliċità, Dak li Int, and their

“Best Musical Act” from the Lovin

title track, Xemx u Xita.

Malta Social Media Awards (2019)

However, The Travellers didn’t stop

2 “Malta Music Awards” (2020)

there. Apart from taking the stage

including:

abroad in places such as Berlin

•

Listener’s Choice

and Tunisia, the dynamic group

•

Best Song in Maltese

performed in concerts such as the prestigious Isle of MTV 2017 and

“Best group” from Bay Music

Radio Italia Live 2019, showcasing

Awards (2020)

their music to a massive international audience.

“Best Musical Act” from the Lovin Malta Social Media Awards (2020)

Their debut album Iljuni fis-Silġ, released in 2018, is a further testament

The

Travellers’

versatility, with game-changers such as Ħafi Paċi Kuluri and Ersaq fil-Qrib; thrilling tunes which have managed to capture the attention of thousands. Following such releases, the band has amassed over 3 million views on their YouTube Channel and over 500k streams on Spotify as well as numerous awards.

Photo: Tonio Lombardo

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Te x t – M a r ke t i n g D e p a r t m e n t Photos – Peter Paul Barbara

TĦALLIX JUM JGĦADDI MIMLI DMUGĦ… JEKK SE TIXROB, ISSUQX DON’T LET A DAY PASS FULL OF TEARS – DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE THE 2021 DON’ T DRINK AND DRIVE CAMPAIGN

90 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

ħallix Jum Jgħaddi Mimli Dmugħ – Jekk se tixrob, issuqx (Don’t let a day pass full of tears – Don’t drink and drive) is the slogan chosen for the 2021 Transport Malta and Malta Road Safety Council’s yearly Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign.

closed to vehicular traffic for a few minutes until the shots were taken. The following is a look at Previous Don’t Drink and Drive Campaigns and Slogans 2020 – Be Smart this Christmas Last year, in 2020, since the

Customary to the last few years,

pandemic was still raging on and

the Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign

many people remained indoors, the

associated with the festive season

focus of the campaign was shifted

is back, this time on a bigger scale,

from the normal celebratory concept

with a bigger budget, and with the

to a different one. The slogan Be

participation of the Maltese music

Smart this Christmas was chosen, to

band, The Travellers.

emphasise to the public that drinking and driving is something that should

Preparations for this year’s campaign

be completely avoided throughout

started quite some months ago,

the entire year.

with ongoing discussions with The Travellers on how to best proceed

2019 – Are you going to Drink?

to make the biggest impact possible.

Don’t Drive

For the visuals of the campaign, Transport Malta teamed with the

As opposed to other years’ videos

Civil Protection Department and the

featuring

Emergency Department of Mater Dei

campaign launched in 2019 featured

Hospital, with the full participation of

three animated videos, with three

the Land Enforcement Unit within

different scenarios. The first two

Transport Malta.

videos, featuring a Christmas party

real-life

actors,

the

and a scenario after a Christmas Images and extracts of the song Siġġu

party, show the main character

Vojt were shot at the Civil Protection

intoxicated and almost deciding to

Department in Ħal Far, while a second

drive afterwards. Finally, in another

set of images were staged under

party scenario, the character realises

strict traffic management in the Santa

that drinking and driving would be

Venera Tunnels, one of which was

unwise.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

As a token of this campaign, air

ways. The spirit explains that a little

2017. A number of actors presented

fresheners with the message Se

courtesy on the road lifts one’s mood

a symbolic gift to the Maltese

tixrob? Issuqx. were distributed to

and keeps everybody safe.

community, represented by an actual

the public. The Malta Road Safety Council

distributed

gift box with phrases related to good

disposable

Mince pies were distributed by

manners on the road printed inside

breathalysers so that drivers could

enforcement officers on Regional

of it. These ‘gifts’ are much more

check their blood alcohol level before

Road to commemorate the season

valuable than material gifts, since

driving.

and remind drivers to be more

being well-mannered on the road

courteous on the road. This year’s

could save a life.

2018 – While Driving, Remember

slogan was Fit-triq, ftakar fl-ispirtu

the Christmas Spirit

tal-Milied! featured

2017 – This Christmas Give a

a modern twist on Dickens’s A

Present – Be Responsible on the

Christmas Carol, but with a reckless

Road

The

2018

campaign

The nine ‘gifts’ were: •

When I drive, I don’t use a mobile phone

•

driver instead of a miser. The ghost,

I don’t drink alcohol before driving

or Christmas spirit, pays him a visit

A concept that we are all familiar with,

after seeing him drive carelessly,

gifting, was the main feature of the

in hopes that he would change his

Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign in

92 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

•

I use the indicator whenever I change direction

• •

On the road, I’m always

committed themselves to the nine

advert, the mother’s young daughter

careful

pledges to keep our roads safe.

is heard asking Santa Claus for her

I always put on the safety belt,

mother’s speedy recovery instead

in front and at the back

2016 – If you are going to drink – Do

of a material gift. The slogan Jekk se

•

I keep to the speed limit

not Drive

tixrob, issuqx is heard once again.

•

I make sure kids have the

• •

appropriate car seat

The 2016 campaign had more of a

I am always careful of riders

sombre tone to it, with the fictitious

on the road

story of the negative repercussions

I don’t park recklessly

of somebody’s drunk driving. In the campaign video, a mother stops to

This campaign featured the slogan

run an errand and as she walks back

Dan il-Milied, agħti rigal… Fit-triq,

to her car, she is run over by our main

kun responsabbli, to emphasise the

character. Jekk se tixrob, issuqx,

fact that by adhering to rules of the

this year’s slogan, is heard after the

road, everyone will be safeguarded.

damage is done.

The campaign was launched in Parliament Square, where several

As a continuation of this imaginary

members of the general public

(albeit realistic) story, in a follow-up

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

he 2021 Don’t Drink T and Drive Campaign Officially Launched in Collaboration with the band The Travellers 94 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure

season, when one may drink a little bit

Council Executive Chairperson, Mr

and Capital Projects Dr Ian Borg

more, we appeal to the general public

Pierre Vella, and members of the

officially launched this year’s edition

to use alternative means of transport

band The Travellers. The conference

of the Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign

such as taxis, organised transport,

was also attended by the Director of

for this year’s festive season. This

and public transport, to avoid road

the Land Enforcement Unit, Mr Clint

year, Transport Malta and the Malta

accidents and unwanted tragedies

Axisa.

Road Safety Council are teaming up

as much as possible.”

with the Maltese famed music group, The Travellers.

For this year, the campaign was Dr Borg thanked all those officers

organised with the support of the

employed by enforcement agencies

band The Travellers, that recorded a

The chosen slogan for this year is

who do their duty to ensure that our

song titled “Siġġu Vojt” (Empty Chair)

‘Tħallix jum jgħaddi mimli dmugħ.

roads are kept safe, especially during

- which song contains a very strong

Jekk se tixrob issuqx!’

this time of year. He reminded that

message and recounts a tragic story

these officers have their own families

about the consequence of being

A DOI press statement published

as well and hence it is important

under the influence of alcohol or

following the event quoted Minister

that everyone shows respect and

other substances.

Borg emphasizing the

appreciates the work they carry out

fact that

this message applies not only for

every day.

During the month of December,

the festive season but should be

Transport Malta will be airing a

followed all year round, however it

The Press Conference was also

promotional video to promote road

may apply more during the festive

addressed

Malta

safety as well as a full educational

season due to the fact that this is a

Chairman and CEO, Mr Joseph

campaign that will be published on

period when most people celebrate

Bugeja, who said that this year

social media and local television

and attend parties. Therefore, “it is

Transport Malta has increased its

stations. Each member of the band

imperative that on our roads there

budget so that “we will have an even

The Travellers will be sending out

must be a greater sense of altruism,

stronger road safety campaign.”

a message through various radio

and everyone must be responsible

He also thanked The Travellers for

stations so that together will continue

so that traffic road accidents are

joining Transport Malta in its efforts to

to appeal to the public and emphasise

avoided”.

increase road safety.

the message that no one should drive

The press statement also quotedDr

The Press Conference was also

Borg, saying that; “During the festive

addressed by the Malta Road Safety

Transport

under the influence of alcohol.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

TRANSPORT MALTA DELEGATION VISITS THE INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TRANSPORT - MCAST Sandra Cristiano E xe c u t i v e Maritime Enforcement Unit Enforcement Directorate

A delegation from Transport Malta,

and Chief Operating Officer, and

equipment available to simulate

led by Deputy CEO and Chief

Ms Sandra Cristiano, coordinator of

specific conditions while at sea.

Operating Officer, Mr Kevin Farrugia,

the Commercial Vessel Boatmaster

visited the Institute of Engineering

Course.

and Transport (MCAST) on the 22

The delegation also visited the Seamanship lecture room where

of November 2021, during the first

Eng Stephen Sammut, Director

Mr Kyle Mifsud gave an overview on

day of the second group of Maritime

of the Institute of Engineering and

the subject of Nautical Knowledge.

Enforcement

(MEOs)

Transport, welcomed the delegation,

The Deputy CEO and COO then

Commercial

together with Mr Anthony Callus and

briefly addressed the participants

Mr Chris Grech, who are Manager

and wished them a successful

and Coordinator respectively in the

continuation of the course, and also

Training for Industry department.

made reference to other courses

attendance

Officers’ of

the

Vessel Boatmaster Grade 1 course. The delegation was made up of Mr Kevin Farrugia, Deputy CEO

being planned that shall make use

and Chief Operations Officer, Mr

The group toured the various

of the excellent facilities offered by

Patrick Pollacco, Director of the

facilities of the Institute at the

MCAST.

Maritime Enforcement Unit within

MCAST campus in Paola, including

the Enforcement Directorate, Mr

the Maritime Simulator Room where

Apart from seeing other lecture

Peter Paul Barbara, Director - Special

Capt. Ghassan explained how the

rooms specifically equipped for the

Projects, Office of the Deputy CEO

simulator is used and the various

various subjects covered though

96 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

this course, the delegation was also shown other facilities such as those relating to aviation. The two sides agreed to explore how they may increase their bilateral cooperation,

such

through

existing and new courses from which Transport Malta officers, particularly Enforcement Officials, can benefit from in the future in order to acquire vocational certification in various skills relating to enforcement and other disciplines.

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98 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

GOVERNMENT UNVEILS THE MALTA METRO NETWORK PROPOSAL AND THE START OF A WIDE PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS Peter Paul Barbara Director-Special Projects within the Office of t h e D e p u t y C h i e f E xe c u t i v e O f f i c e r a n d C h i e f O p e r a t i n g O f f i c e r – Tr a n s p o r t M a l t a Photos by Eric Montebello

As announced in the special edition

was

Facebook

In a presentation given by Transport

of T-21, dedicated specifically to the

Live, was done in the information

Malta Chairman and CEO, Mr Joseph

Malta Metro underground proposal,

centre, specifically set up at the

Bugeja, a brief presentation on the

the proposed light rail network was

City Gate Plaza, which centre

study, including a short overview of

unveiled on Saturday 2nd October by

also housed a visual exhibition of

the process carried out so far, as

the Hon. Prime Minister Dr Robert

the proposed network and other

well as the three-line underground

Abela and Hon. Minister for Transport,

visual representations of the study.

comprising 25 stations, including

Infrastructure and Capital Projects,

This centre was also open for

the three inter-changes and a

Dr Ian Borg, who presented the

the public to visit. Apart from the

maintenance and service depot for

results of a study on the feasibility

unveiling of the proposed network,

the system, was given. The proposed

of a mass transport system in Malta

a non-statutory public consultation

network

commissioned by Transport Malta

process was launched together with

accessible, improves the quality of

and carried out by the international

the dedicated web portal metro.mt,

life of residents, and intends to serve

engineering consultancy firm, ARUP.

where those interested could also

the country and future generations

The presentation of the study, which

leave their opinion.

to come.

100 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

transmitted

sustainable,

easily

Mr Bugeja said that ARUP was commissioned by the Government and the studies started in 2017, with a clear mandate to propose the most suitable mass rapid transport system for Malta and reach the aspirations of future generations. The first phase of the project that would see the construction of the entire northern line, would cost

Chairman and CEO of Transport Malta, Mr Joseph Bugeja

around €3.9 billion and take between five and eight years to be completed.

The eventual system, if implemented,

The Public Presentation Event was

would

also addressed by ARUP Director,

Mr Joseph Bugeja said that the study

reformed bus network, which would

accompanied

Donal McDaid, who gave a detailed

kicked off by carrying out an options

be integrated with the respective

presentation of how the study was

analysis of the current systems on

underground stations, with smaller

carried out, as well as a detailed look

the market and identifying the best

buses and added frequency and

at the concept design of the network

option, after which the feasibility

outreach.

and the Outline Strategic Business Case drawn up.

of the latter was studied in more detail. “A number of systems were considered, however the one that is most appropriate, affordable, and feasible was chosen.” Mr. Bugeja did acknowledge that

“The launch of the findings of this study is just the beginning of a long process, not least a national discussion on what is being proposed and where we want to go in the future”,

Mr McDaid said that ARUP studied various alternatives available for a mass rapid transport system, but the underground light metro was found to be the most feasible option for Malta, although it does come with a

implementing such a metro system does present various number of

Mr Bugeja said. Additional studies,

higher cost and longer delivery time.

challenges when it comes to its

such as a more detailed economic

Mr McDaid said that although Malta

construction, should the Government

and financial study (post COVID) and

has recently overhauled the road

decide in this direction. He said

the identification of the best financial

infrastructure system, the capacity

that the network will be largely

cost-model must be adopted. This

of the road network would not be

underground, with a small section

shall be coupled by more technical

sufficient to cater for future traffic

to be constructed overground. The

studies,

growth.

project shall also regenerate the

studies and an Environmental Impact

various number of urban centres

Assessment. It is after the conclusion

On the station design suggested,

where the stations would be built,

of a number of these studies that the

Mr McDaid said that this was as

with the final aim being to improve the

Government will decide on the way

minimalistic as possible, with little

quality of life of the residents.

forward.

obtrusions of the plazas where

such

geo-technical

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 101

they would be built. He said that the stations would bring with them

Minister Ian Borg calls for a mature discussion

carried out by future successive Governments as opposed to one

regenerated and improved open

administration. He continued to say

areas, coupled by pedestrian areas

Transport Minister Dr Ian Borg said

that he was sure that everyone would

leading to the stations.

that after a lot of perseverance, the

like to have such a mass transport

time has come to finally present to

system.

It is estimated to cost around €6.25

the public the study and the proposal

billion, and its construction would

put forward by the Government’s

Minister

be spanned over a period of 15

consultants, ARUP. Minister Borg

Government wanted to address

to 20 years. Its cost includes a

said that this presentation will provide

the traffic problem in the short-,

45% contingency rate to address

the Maltese with an opportunity to

medium-, and long-term, and this

currently unknown risks. ARUP

discuss the proposal in a mature

project is looking at the long term.

has also carried out an Outline

manner. He said that this project will

In the meantime, we are addressing

Strategic Business Case in order to

have to be looked at even from the

transport issues in the short and

evaluate the network economically,

National Transport Strategy and

medium term, including providing

financially,

commercially,

National Transport Master Plan,

free public transport and internal

including rates of return ratios on the

which has already been agreed upon

maritime transport, to mention a few.

project and so on.

with the European Commission.

He said that Malta is one of the most

and

Borg

said

that

the

highly motorised countries, with 72% Mr McDaid finished his presentation

He said that for the first time, the

of our residents currently using their

by giving an outlook on what needs

Government has a comprehensive

own public cars, 17% using public

to be done from now on, should the

plan that is intended for future

transport, and only 11% using bicycles

Government decide to continue

generations

or walking.

with this proposal.

implemented, would historically be

and

which,

Info Centre Team

102 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

He said that the Government had to

proper proposal to serve as basis for

material that would be generated

act for the short and medium term,

a mature discussion. He said that the

by this project and what would be

with interventions in specific bottle

Government has all the credentials to

done with it, specifically referring to

necks on the road infrastructure.

start off this discussion.

land reclamation and whether the country is ready to turn challenges

He said that if we do nothing now, in

He said that if people want to have

into opportunities. He said that this is

the future we will be accused of not

better living spaces instead of having

not a project of one Government but

having planned for the future, like

them occupied by parked vehicles,

a number of future Governments, and

what we are doing now in respect

we need to face the big decisions that

hence asked for a mature discussion

to past decisions taken. He finished

this would require.

away from a political tune. Then the

by saying that this proposal is not

Government would have to decide

set in stone and the Government is

Prime Minister Abela also made

open for comments and suggestions

reference to our resources and the

on the way forward.

that would be put forward. He finally

appealed for a mature national

Government would also have to

discussion.

study how such a massive project

said

that

responsible

would be financed as well as the

Prime Minster Robert Abela says the Government has the credibility to see the project through

impact on future Governments, especially since this project would be implemented over minimum four different administrations; “a project like this costs billions, but it is a

Prime Minister Robert Abela started

reality that such a project would

by saying where we want to go and

occur over four legislatures”.

how we want to go there. This is what the Government is asking on a

He said that we need to be realistic

national level. Dr Abela said that the

on the one hand but ambitious on the

subject of mass transport has been

other hand. Everything starts from

brought forward on many occasions,

a dream, but then the Government

including

interesting

would need to make the appropriate

proposals which were suggested. He

decisions. He said that we would

said that now the Government has a

need to have a national mature

various

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 103

discussion on what we are going to leave our children and future generations. After

the

presentations,

Prime

Minister Robert Abela and Minister for Transport Dr Ian Borg officially opened the exhibition which was open to the public for 2 weeks. On the following Sunday, a press event was held at the information centre, where members of the press were invited to ask any questions on the proposal to the ARUP delegation as well as to Transport Minister Dr Ian Borg and the Chairman and

CEO

Transport

Malta,

Mr Joseph Bugeja. Currently, Transport Malta is gauging the comments that has been received so far on the proposed network.

104 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Mr Donal McDaid, Director ARUP

Some Important Highlights of the proposed metro •

The study kicked off in 2017 by

between eight to ten years from

current transport hubs across

the International Engineering

the start date.

Malta’s main Principal Urban

Consultancy Group – ARUP.

Area. •

•

lines, covering a total of 35km of

to trademark the name ‘Malta

track, running from Buġibba to

would not be extended to

Metro’ with the European Union

Pembroke, Birkirkara to Valletta,

Gozo. Studies concluded that a

Intellectual Property Office and

and Mater Dei to Cospicua.

population increase of 50,000

registered

two

commercial

companies. •

The network would include three

In 2019, Transport Malta applied

•

At this point in time, the network

on the smaller island would •

The network proposed would be

be necessary to make the link

entirely underground except for

viable.

The network is estimated to cost

a short stretch between Naxxar

around €6.2 billion and take 15

and Buġibba.

to 20 years to build, with 45% contingency built in.

•

A revised bus public network has also been advised to

•

The first Phase proposed that

complement the system.

the Red line and part of the Green Line would cost €3.9 billion and could be operational

•

The Stations proposed are located at urban stations and

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 105

A website with full details of the proposal can be found at www.metro.mt A copy of the feasibility study can be found at Feasibility Study | Malta Metro

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, Dr Ian Borg

A copy of the Strategic Business Case can be found at Strategic Business Case | Malta Metro Video and VR station can be seen at Malta Metro The special edition of the T-21 Malta Metro can be downloaded from T-21 Publication - Transport Malta (gov.mt)

106 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Prime Minister Dr Robert Abela

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 107

Malta Metro 108 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Press Briefing Transport Minister Dr Ian Borg; Chairman and CEO TM, Mr Joseph Bugeja; Mr Peter Adams (ARUP); Mr Salvatore Settecase

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 109

Peter Paul Barbara Director Special Projects O f f i c e o f t h e D e p u t y C h i e f E xe c u t i v e O f f i c e r and Chief Operating Officer

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE MALTA METRO PROPOSAL

110 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

As part of the presentation for the

proposed for City Gate itself. The

large video screen set up around

Malta Metro Network proposed to

VR experience was able to place

the perimeter of the entire stand.

the Government by the Engineering

the users in the station and let them

Guests at the stand were presented

Consultancy Firm ARUP, for a

experience the stations as if they

with leaflets and postcards to

period of two weeks Transport

were actually about to catch the

commemorate the launch of this

Malta set up an Information Centre,

metro from Valletta.

proposal, and they could leave their

including a multi-visual experience,

feedback and opinion on the touch

for the general public to visit at City

Additionally, the entire network and

Gate Valletta.

the respective three lines proposed

screens within the stand.

as well as various journey times were

Apart from the information on the

The information centre offered a

presented on a large video screen

proposed system, information for the

multi-visual experience, also with

installed at the centre. Every single

proposed bus network which would

the use of Virtual Reality technology

station was presented through a

complement such a system was also

through which the public could also

short clip, showing the location of

presented, and for ease of clarity this

experience one of the metro stations

the station and how the respective

is being reproduced in this article

proposed, precisely the station

line would pass through on the same

as well.

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

111

Proposed Feeder Bus Network and Circular Bus Network Complementing the Metro Lines

Iċ-Ċirkewwa

L-Għadira

Il-Mellieħa Buġibba Xemxija

San Pawl il-Baħar

Buġibba Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq

Burmarrad

Għajn Tuffieħa Il-Bidnija Il-Ġnejna

Pembroke

L-Imġarr

St. Julian’s

Naxxar

Is-Swieqi

Balluta

Għargħur Mosta

Mater Dei

Balzan Ta' Qali

Il-Baħrija

Sliema

San Ġwann

Attard

L-Imtarfa

Gżira Msida

Birkirkara Mrieħel

Ir-Rabat

Valletta

Ħamrun

Marsa P&R

Marsa

Vittoriosa Smart City Xgħajra Kalkara Senglea Żabbar

Cospicua

Fgura

Ħal Qormi

Haż-Żebbuġ

Floriana

Paola

Żonqor

Bulebel Santa Luċija

Ħad-Dingli Is-Siġġiewi

Il-Buskett

Airport

Iż-Żejtun Il-Gudja

L-Imqabba

Ħaġar Qim

Ħal Għaxaq Marsaxlokk ll-Qajjenza

Il-Qrendi

Lapsi

Marsaskala

Ħal Safi Iż-Żurrieq Birżebbuġa Ħal Far

Bus Network

Metro Red Line

Metro Green Line

Metro Blue Line

112 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Note: A more defined Feeder and Circulatory bus network will be presented for consultation at a later stage

Iċ-Ċirkewwa

Proposed Feeder Bus Network Complementing the Metro Lines

Batterija

L-Għadira

Il-Mellieħa Buġibba Xemxija

San Pawl il-Baħar

Buġibba Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq

Burmarrad

Għajn Tuffieħa Il-Bidnija Il-Ġnejna

L-Imġarr

Pembroke

Skorba

St. Julian’s

Naxxar

Is-Swieqi

Mater Dei

Balzan Ta' Qali

Attard

L-Imtarfa Bużugrilla

Sliema

San Ġwann

Dwejra

Il-Baħrija

Balluta

Għargħur

Mosta

Gżira Msida

Birkirkara Mrieħel

Ir-Rabat

Valletta

Ħamrun

Marsa P&R

Marsa

Vittoriosa Smart City Xgħajra Kalkara Senglea Żabbar

Cospicua

Fgura

Ħal Qormi

Ħaż-Żebbuġ

Floriana

Paola

Żonqor

Bulebel

Sdieri

Santa Luċija

Ħad-Dingli Is-Siġġiewi

Il-Buskett

Airport Andar

Ħal Għaxaq Marsaxlokk ll-Qajjenza

Il-Qrendi Ħaġar Qim

Luċjan

Iż-Żejtun Il-Gudja

L-Imqabba

Lapsi

Marsaskala

Ħal Safi Iż-Żurrieq Birżebbuġa Ħal Far

Italicised names indicate current bus stops. Bus Network

Metro Red Line

Metro Green Line

Metro Blue Line

Note: A more defined Feeder and Circulatory bus network will be presented for consultation at a later stage

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 113

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116 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

117

MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT, INFRASTRUCTURE AND CAPITAL PROJECTS PRESENTS THE MALTA METRO STUDIES TO THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION HILE IN BRUSSELS, MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT, W INFRASTRUCTURE AND CAPITAL PROJECTS DR IAN BORG PRESENTED TO EUROPEAN COMMISSIONER ADINA VĂLEAN THE STUDIES WHICH WERE COMMISSIONED FOR THE MALTESE GOVERNMENT TO IDENTIFY AND PROPOSE THE IDEAL MASS TRANSPORT SYSTEM FOR MALTA.

118 ISSUE 05 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

Minister Ian Borg told the EU

on the subject. Our goal is for the

infrastructural work being done in

Commissioner that in recent years,

consultation to be open and for

Malta and Malta’s commitment to sea

during this legislature, the Maltese

everyone to share their thoughts

and air transport sectors.

Government had promised as part of

so that we can evaluate and work

its work programme a study aiming

towards the future of this country

In Brussels, Minister Ian Borg

to explore the possibility of having

with regard to land transport”, said

together with the Maltese delegation

mass transport for the first time in

Dr Ian Borg.

also

met

with

the

European

Malta. Minister Borg said that the

Automobile

Government

In response to this report, the

Association, the European Business

European

Aviation

has

commissioned

the International Consultancy and

Commissioner

for

Manufacturers

Association,

and

the

Engineering firm ARUP, given their

Transport Adina Vălean explained

European Community Shipowners’

high expertise on such projects, to

that the European Commission

Association.

determine the best means of mass

welcomes such a detailed study, also

transport for Malta, which in their

due to the fact that it is clear that the

opinion and suggested system was a

Maltese Government is exploring all

light rail metro.

possibilities to make the transport sector more sustainable.

Dr Borg explained that a national discussion on the subject is currently

Commissioner Vălean also discussed

underway in Malta, after which the

with the Maltese delegation the work

Government will be deciding on the

being done by the Maltese authorities

way forward.

to incentivise the use of electric vehicles and alternative transport,

“We have presented a concrete plan

including sea transport.

to our people and as a Government we are listening to what people