The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) said in a statement this afternoon that it commends the initiative announced by the Malta International Airport (MIA) to once again waive the landing fees [1] to all scheduled airlines throughout the coming winter months, in an effort to stimulate traffic during this lean period.
MHRA asserts that the Malta Airport’s incentive programme aimed to attract airlines or increase their presence in Malta is “certainly a step in the right direction which should encourage all relevant parties to give this initiative some thought and see how they can also contribute further to make Malta more competitive.”
“The winter period is a very tough period for everyone in the tourism industry and a concerted effort to stimulate more business to Malta can make a positive difference. It is traditional that Hotels review their prices to highly competitive levels throughout most of the loss-making winter months in an effort to generate more business. Airlines generally do the same and so do a number of other services providers of the industry,” the Association said.
The MHRA said that it has, over the years, encouraged Government to do the same by applying discounted rates on state charges or by way of introducing incentives that can ultimately help hotels become more competitive and stay open throughout the winter months. Such incentives would have widespread benefits and would enhance employment levels.
Mr Tony Zahra, President of MHRA, stated, “this move does not only give credit to MIA as an invaluable stakeholder of the tourism industry in Malta, but it should catalyze other stakeholders to consider similar initiatives which will generate further growth in tourism during the winter months. Such an effort will lead to a positive economic multiplier effect which benefits all.
“At an international level, we are experiencing very sensitive and dynamic economic times, and the MIA incentive communicates to all that Malta means business. Indeed, the MHRA remains disposed to cooperate and support such initiatives since our ultimate goal is to ensure that Malta improves its position as an all year round destination”