Malta International Airport or Luqa Airport (MLA)

About Malta International Airport (MLA)

Malta International Airport is the only airport in Malta and the primary gateway for international travel to the Maltese Islands. Located about 8 kilometres south of Valletta, the capital city, it connects Malta to destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The airport is operated by Malta International Airport plc and is one of the most consistently busy airports in the Mediterranean, handling millions of passengers annually thanks to Malta's thriving tourism industry.

Luqa Airport Details - Malta International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Malta International Airport
• IATA Code: MLA
• Address: Luqa, Malta
• Airport Pin Code: LQA 4000
• Distance from Valletta City Centre: Approximately 10 km
• Phone Number: +356 2124 9600
• Old Name: Luqa Airport

How Many Airports in Malta?

Malta has one commercial airport, Malta International Airport (MLA), located in Luqa. There are no other airports handling scheduled passenger flights on the main island. The island of Gozo, part of the Maltese archipelago, does not have a commercial airport and is accessed from Malta by ferry.

How Many Terminals in Malta Airport?

Malta International Airport operates with a single integrated terminal building handling all domestic and international flights. The terminal has separate sections for departures and arrivals, with dedicated Schengen and non-Schengen passenger zones. The terminal has undergone several modernisation projects and features a well-organised layout that keeps passenger flow efficient.

Distance Between Malta Airport Terminals

Since Malta International Airport functions as a single terminal, no inter-terminal transfer is required. Passengers can move between the Schengen and non-Schengen sections within the same building. The compact layout of the terminal means all facilities are within easy walking distance of each other.

How Many Runways in Malta Airport?

Malta International Airport has two runways designated 13/31 and 05/23. Both are capable of handling a wide range of aircraft from narrow-body regional jets to wide-body long-haul aircraft. The runway configuration supports the airport's year-round schedule of European and intercontinental services.

Visa and Immigration for Malta Airport

Malta is a member of the Schengen Area, which means Indian passport holders require a Schengen visa before travelling to Malta. Here is what Indian travellers need to know:

• Visa Requirement: A Schengen visa must be obtained from the Maltese Embassy or an authorised visa application centre in India before departure.
• Visa on Arrival: Not available for Indian passport holders.
• e-Visa: No e-visa facility currently exists for Indian citizens travelling to Malta.
• Key Documents: Valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of accommodation, return ticket, travel insurance covering at least 30,000 euros, and recent bank statements.
• Immigration at MLA: Non-Schengen arrivals clear passport control in the dedicated non-Schengen zone of the terminal. Officers may ask about travel purpose, duration of stay, and accommodation details.

Apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your travel date to allow sufficient processing time.

Malta Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Skyparks Business Centre Lounge: Available within the airport complex for eligible passengers and business travellers.
• Priority Pass Lounges: Select lounge facilities at MLA accept Priority Pass and other eligible lounge membership cards.
• Wi-Fi: Free throughout the terminal.
• Dining and Retail: A range of cafes, restaurants, and duty-free shops available before and after security within the terminal.
• Medical Centre: On-site health services available for emergencies and basic medical needs.

Things to Do in Malta Airport

• Browse duty-free shops for Maltese lace, glassware, local honey, and Kinnie, Malta's iconic bitter orange soft drink.
• Dine at cafes and restaurants offering Maltese specialties including pastizzi, the island's beloved savoury pastry.
• Pick up locally made souvenirs and Maltese crafts unique to the archipelago before your departure.
• Relax in comfortable seating areas within the terminal while waiting for your flight.

Places to Visit Near Malta Airport

• Valletta: Malta's UNESCO-listed capital city is just 8 kilometres from the airport, packed with baroque architecture, the Co-Cathedral of St John, and sweeping harbour views.
• Mdina: Known as the Silent City, this ancient walled town is a short drive from the airport and offers a fascinating glimpse into Malta's medieval history.
• Marsaxlokk: A picturesque fishing village located close to the airport, famous for its colourful traditional fishing boats called luzzus and a lively Sunday fish market.

FAQs About Malta Airport - Malta International Airport

What is the Official Name of Malta Airport?

The official name is Malta International Airport, formerly known as Luqa Airport, operated by Malta International Airport plc.

What is the IATA Code for Malta International Airport?

The IATA code is MLA.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Malta Airport?

Malta International Airport operates as a single terminal with separate Schengen and non-Schengen zones handling all international flights.

Where is Malta Airport Located?

The airport is located in Luqa, approximately 8 kilometres south of Valletta, Malta's capital city.

When Was Malta Airport Built?

Malta International Airport has origins dating back to World War II when it served as a Royal Air Force base. It was developed into a civilian airport after the war and has undergone significant modernisation over the decades.

Is MLA Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Malta International Airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, though certain retail and dining services may have reduced hours during late-night periods.

How Far is Malta International Airport from Valletta City Center?

The airport is approximately 8 kilometres from Valletta. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and public buses connect the airport to the capital in around 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.

What Airlines Operate from MLA?

Airlines operating from MLA include Air Malta, Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates, among others.

Are There Lounges at Malta Airport?

Yes, MLA has lounge facilities including Priority Pass accessible lounges, available based on airline, ticket class, or lounge membership programme.