EDITION IV
2023
AVIATION MALTA — FOURTH EDITION
Contents
20 / Malta Enterprise and the
Maltese Aviation Industry:
A Win-Win Partnership
Malta Enterprise works with public and
private entities to attract foreign direct
investment and bolster innovation and
transformation in aviation.
16 / The outlook for
2024: Bolder, brighter
and more agile.
Captain Charles Pace’s vision for the
Maltese aviation industry.
12 / Hon. Aaron Farrugia,
Minister of Transport,
Infrastructure & Capital
Projects
Malta's aviation sector, as a cornerstone
of the nation's prosperity, holds immense
economic significance.
14 / CEO's Vision:
A Q&A on Leading
Aviation & Maritime at
Transport Malta
Jonathan Borg aims to lead Transport
Malta towards greater agility, commercial
viability, and mission longevity while
utilising his extensive experience in the
maritime and drilling sectors.
8 / Aviation Malta
Introduction and Industry
Round-up
With political allegiances in flux and
maps being redrawn, the aviation
industry has managed to do what it
always does—adjust, innovate
and evolve.
35 / Universal Air:
Delivering strong growth
through driving innovation
and transformation.
In just one year, Universal Air has
undergone a huge transformation,
expanding its services and becoming
a leader in delivering sustainability and
carbon accounting.
Women in Aviation
One female industry leader who firmly
identifies with the statement that
‘excellence has no gender’, Maria Cilia,
is the newly appointed Chief Executive
Officer of Lufthansa Technik Malta.
28 / Malta — an alluring
destination for
families, businesses
and digital nomads
Residency Malta, explains how these
movements have become a mainstay in
today’s hyper-globalised world.
30 / Aviation Malta Cocktails
at Hammett's
On April 27, Hill & Lamb organised and
held an informal gathering for aviation
industry stakeholders at Hammett’s
Mestizo, St Julians.
32 / 3Plex Aero:
Soaring to new heights
as Malta’s first locally
established, largest and
fastest growing CAMO
Aviation Malta magazine spoke with 3Plex
COO John Borg Costanzi about how 3Plex
Aero is going from strength to strength.
39 / MACE 5:
Maintaining Altitude
Aviation Malta was at the fifth Malta
Aviation Conference and Expo (MACE) at
the Malta Hilton.
40 / Mel Air: Malta’s
Sustainable Charter Group
and Capacity Provider
Mel Air stands out as a highly seasoned
capacity provider and charter operator
within Europe, specialising in regional
aircraft with seating capacities of up to
100 passengers.
19 / Fueling Malta's Aviation
Industry with Resilience
and Innovation
Enemed Co. Ltd stands as a pivotal
player in Malta's aviation industry,
ensuring the seamless supply of aviation
fuel to the island's bustling airport.
44 / ESAO: Enabling
Decision-Makers
European SAO is Malta’s first
Specialised Airborne Operations
provider, which is adding a vital pillar to
Malta’s burgeoning aviation industry.
64 / Reviving European-
Libyan Air Connections:
Malta MedAir and Medsky
Airways
The collaboration between Malta MedAir
and Medsky Airways has significant
implications for regional aviation. The
scheduled flights between Malta and
Libya mark a historic voyage.
66 / Vaia Legal: A Boutique
Law Firm that takes a
Person-First Approach
Vaia Legal’s unique proposition as a
boutique legal firm is that they are agile,
more so than a larger firm.
67 / Aviaserve welcomes new
CEO Colin Darmanin as it
Embarks on a New Era of
Strategic Growth
With a strategic vision to enhance
operational efficiency, employee
engagement, and service excellence,
Darmanin's leadership is pivotal for
Aviaserve
68 / Soaring to New Heights
In recent years, the world of
cinematography has undergone a dramatic
transformation, thanks to the widespread
adoption of aerial videography.
56 / Elit’Avia
Aviation Malta spoke to Elit’Avia’s CEO,
Michael Coulomb on how the company
has become a byword for sustainability.
48 / Aviation Malta Cocktails
at the Malta Marriott
A fabulous evening of cocktails, gin &
tonics, canapés and an outstanding
buffet was rounded off by the amazing
views and setting of the pool deck on the
exclusive roof top.
60 / Paymix Pro: The
Aviation Industry’s
Compliant and Efficient
Payment Alternative to
a Conventional Business
Banking Account.
The wake-up call to tired old-school
high-street banking services.
62 / Gracy’s showcases
the best of Maltese and
International Sourced
Produce with a Classic
British/Anglo-Franc
technique
Insight into the journey of Executive Chef
Tom Peters Malta and what tantalising
treats are in store this season.
52 / Introducing the first
ever Boeing B767 freighter
Converted in Europe.
Challenge Group is a conglomerate of
companies that continues to lead the way
in the airfreight and logistics industry,
responding to market demands where
others cannot.
Boston Link: Malta’s Go-To
for Aviation Recruitment
Since its inception in 2014, Boston Link
has been helping people to further their
careers across Malta’s vibrant iGaming
and financial services sectors.
275+
attendees
16 sessions
34 speakers
Environmentally aware
25 tons of CO2
ofset with our sustainability
partner Azzera
MACE 2023
in numbers
Save the Date
2024
2 & 3 OCTOBER 2024
MACE WILL BE RETURNING FOR A 6TH EDITION!
In 2024, MACE will be returning for a
6th edition of the conference and expo,
promising a revamped conference with new
opportunities that keep it fresh and exciting
both for newcomers as well as people who
keep joining the event year after year.
www.mace.aero
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AVIATION MALTA
AVIATION MALTA
EDITION IV | P.9
Aviation Malta
Introduction and Industry
Round-up
INTRODUCTION
Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
While the conflict in Ukraine is not significantly affecting
the profitability of most airlines, it could potentially lead to
increased operating costs, which are usually passed on to the
customer. However, lower oil prices and improved efficiency
following the removal of airspace restrictions would go a long
way in getting things back to “business as usual.”
NATO and Russia…. what if “Cold” goes “Hot”?
As it stands, current geopolitical tensions are affecting
international trade and prices (there’s the grain issue for a start)
and any widening of the war would pose a substantial risk to the
aviation industry. This would have knock-on effects as airlines
would have to plan even more rerouting and rejigging of their
schedules. These routes would take longer and therefore use
more fuel, which is already at a premium due to the conflict.
The global economy has also had an adverse reaction to the
war and with food and fuel price increases countries are now
fighting inflation. If left unchecked, this could tip the global
economy into recession, which could lead to job losses across
the global aviation industry and drops in passenger numbers as
they tighten their belts.
So, could all of this turmoil impact Supply Chains?
We think so. Supply chain issues are still causing headaches
across the industry and they’re still trying to patch up holes
left by all the drama from geopolitical tensions of COVID-19.
This means that airlines are feeling the heat when trying to
get aircraft parts. This of course has an affect on new plane
deliveries, making it even tougher for airlines to keep their
already re-routed and longer schedules flying smoothly.
Fear not! For it is not all doom and gloom!
The COVID bounce-back
I have spoken to all of our contributors and there is one stand-
out: Not only have they bounced back but have thrived during
and after COVID. For example, during COVID Challenge Group
had to launch new routes to underserved freight destinations,
when most airlines grounded planes, pilots and cabin crew,
Challenge Group had to get MORE pilots and post-COVID, this
is now a mainstay of their business.
It’s this agility that never fails to amaze us here at Aviation
Malta as well as the loyalty of their teams. The same is also true
across the Maltese aviation sector. Time and time again we
Welcome to Aviation Malta 2023. It’s been quite a tumultuous year for an industry reeling
from Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. With political allegiances in flux and maps
being redrawn, the aviation industry has managed to do what it always does; adjust,
innovate and evolve. So, without further ado, here's a look at the aviation industry's highs
and lows of 2022-23.
INTRODUCTION
hear the words “family” and “loyalty”, all with the Maltese flair
that makes this tiny country in the Mediterranean so attractive.
Compliance (Stay with me on this one)
I don’t mean to be boring now, but a big shout needs to go out
to compliance. Yes, Transport Malta, we are most definitely
talking about you. Aviation companies in Malta are staggered
at how rigorous the inspection process is in Malta when
compared to Inspectorates in other EU countries. At Transport
Malta accuracy and attention to detail are absolute. However,
due to the strong relationship that Transport Malta builds with
all of the companies under their purview, this works out very
well. As a result, there are zero percent complaints and 100
percent compliance. In short, Transport Malta does everything
by the book.
The Aviation Sector: The kicking post for the Green Lobby.
(Seatbelts on please, this could get “Ranty”).
What I’ve experienced over the last four months of interviews is
that the Maltese aviation sector and the wider aviation industry,
in general, is working harder than most sectors to reduce its
impact on the environment.
Firstly, a dose of realism: The aviation genie is out of the
bottle. It’s there and now we need to accept that when we’re
travelling on our next holiday or city break. “Barbenheimer”
has more chance of putting their particular genies back in their
respective bottles
One thing that strikes me among people who work in the
aviation sector is their passion for the industry. They will never
leave the sector and if they do, they are oftentimes looking to
get back into the industry. These people are highly educated
pilots, industry leaders, flight managers and engineers. They
are achievers and as such, they are very aware of the damage
that the aviation industry is doing to the environment.
The more cynical among us will snicker at X Airline’s
“commitment to sustainability”, but in reality, aviation
companies in Malta and beyond are not only taking
sustainability seriously but embracing it. They are actively doing
way more than “the bare minimum.”
Andrew Shameen / Editor · Aviation Malta
P. 10 | EDITION IV
AVIATION MALTA
For example, Universal Air has engaged Vör a Carbon
Accounting and Strategy Consultancy and Victoria Ecosystems
Carbon Tech Consultancy. They are working with both
companies to undertake voluntary compliance with the EU
Emissions Trading System, which incorporates UE ETS, and
ICAO CORSIA frameworks.
Could the same be said for companies across the Utilities,
Chemical, Mining and Automotive sectors? These companies
are so keen to promote their green credentials but not back this
up with solid action.
So, when we compare the green credentials of the aviation
industry to mining/water/chemical corp’s commitment to
sustainability, could this be seen just bombast? Unfair perhaps,
but it could be food for thought.
Could it be that the aviation sector is the kicking post for the
green lobby? Climate change is real. We also assume that
the delegates attending the United Nations Climate Change
Conference in Dubai will not be walking there. To us, the
aviation industry is an easy target and perhaps some reflection
is required by those who malign our industry while they’re on
the way to Dubai this December. Rant over. (Breathe).
An industry that never stands still: Continuous evolution,
transformation and growth against all odds.
The Aviation Industry has always been a bastion of innovation.
It’s this pursuit of excellence that is shaping how airlines and
aviation companies are facing up to multiple challenges and not
just existing but growing. They’re expanding and continuously
moving forward. For example, Challenge Group have become
the launch customer for the new B767 Freighter. They are on
a major roll and will introduce three additional B767s and four
additional 777 Freighters.
Universal Air have made a huge leap from a small AOC to a
fully-fledged airline announcing a large fleet expansion and
new routes to Haifa, Cyprus and Romania.
Mel Air, a company known for innovation, has doubled its
reservation for Hybrid Air Vehicles' helium-based Airlander
from 10 to 20 aircraft. They intend to fly the 100-seat Airlander
under Air Nostrum, the Spanish regional airline which operates
Iberia’s domestic routes starting in 2026.
What has also fascinated us at Aviation Malta is how companies
in the Maltese aviation sector stick to single types of aircraft.
We understand that it’s not unusual.
Universal Air uses Dash 8 100s and has recently taken on new
Q400s. Mel Air uses ATR72s. Both companies use the same
type in the most versatile way possible. These aircraft can
carry passengers as easily as converting the aircraft to deliver
medical supplies for a relief operation. In short, they use single
types of aircraft to perform multiple functions.
They don’t want to compete with Ryanair and Wizz Air but focus
on building and delivering a product for smaller markets at
smaller airports that large planes cannot service.
It also shows how lean their operations are and how aligned
their vision is to service their target markets.
In short, the Maltese aviation sector is growing. Its companies
are transforming, growing and working together. It may only be
a county the size of Leicester, but is a strong country, a resilient
country and it welcomes entrepreneurship, hard work and those
who want to make a difference.
Thank you. ●
INTRODUCTION
Sales Outsourcing
CEO Engagement
Lead Generation
Tailor Made Events & Launches
Representation
International Road Shows
Sales Strategy
Marketing
Business Development
PR & Communications
hillandlamb.com
P. 12 | EDITION IV
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AVIATION MALTA
EDITION IV | P.13
INTERVIEW
Hon. Aaron Farrugia,
Minister of Transport,
Infrastructure & Capital
Projects
Malta's aviation sector, as a cornerstone of
our prosperity, holds immense economic
significance. With each year, we take
steps forward in ensuring its resilience,
competitiveness, and readiness for future
success.
Earlier this year, we had the privilege of participating in the
EBACE exhibition and conference in Geneva, where Malta, with
its 9H registry, affirmed its standing as a preferred jurisdiction
in the aviation industry.
Malta's journey, as one of the industry's key players, took
a significant stride with the ratification of the Cape Town
Convention. This legislative act on aircraft registration, tax
incentives, and aircraft repair facilities has contributed to our
aviation sector's growth.
Now, we look forward to addressing the European Business
Aviation Association conference in Brussels, reiterating Malta's
commitment to balancing growth and sustainability.
Malta's geographical location makes the aviation sector
paramount for our economic and social development. Over the
years, we've witnessed remarkable growth, with achievements
like 205 aircraft registrations in a single year, 47 Air Operator
Certificates (AOCs), and 823 aircraft on the register.
Sustainability is at the heart of our efforts to rejuvenate this
sector. We proudly share that our airport now sources 30
percent of its energy from renewable sources.
INTERVIEW
We have important projects in the pipeline, including the
revival of the Gozo airfield and substantial investments in
upgrading Malta International Airport's facilities, contributing
to employment opportunities in construction and airport
operations.
The revamping of our national airline signifies our dedication
to a strong aviation sector and ensuring connectivity for the
Maltese islands, supporting jobs in the airline industry.
In support of the business aviation industry, we maintain our
commitment to a competitive market that fosters growth
without undue restrictions on enterprises, ensuring job security
in this sector.
Our recently launched Civil Aviation Policy for 2023-2030
underscores our dedication to a balanced approach between
economic, social, and environmental aspects in the aviation
sector, with a focus on sustainable job creation.
The revival of Park 6, previously neglected for forty-four years,
demonstrates our commitment to expanding aviation facilities
and creating a versatile aircraft parking facility, potentially
generating additional employment opportunities.
Aviation's impact extends beyond airlines and airports,
affecting diverse economic sectors, and creating employment
in fields like tourism and hospitality.
The demand for skilled human resources in this industry far
outstrips supply, which we aim to address through training and
skills transfers, enhancing the employability of our workforce.
Official data reveals that in 2019, there were 5,112 persons
directly employed in the aviation industry, with a significantly
higher number of jobs indirectly related to aviation. Salaries
within the sector are on average significantly higher than
average, further contributing to improved livelihoods.
In the short term, we need to attract and welcome foreign highly
skilled employees to sustain and drive the growth of the sector,
but we are also looking at skills transfers and training to ensure
the development of a homegrown highly skilled labour force
that is able to drive the growth of the industry forward.
We are working closely with investors in the sector to provide
short-term solutions to sustain the current growth momentum,
while focusing on developing a sustainable homegrown labour
force that can make our islands a centre of excellence in this
highly regulated but attractive industry.
Today, I am also happy to announce that Malta has climbed one
place in the Cape Town compliance list. We are now second in
the world and highest in Europe with a score of 95, reflecting
our dedication to sustaining and expanding employment in the
aviation sector.
Our efforts are not just localised. We've actively participated
in General Approach negotiations, voicing our concerns,
especially regarding sustainable aviation fuel. We've managed
to secure flexibilities that will aid airlines and maintain
connectivity for island Member States like ours. These
negotiations emphasised fuel safety, reduced administrative
burdens, and considered the impact on peripheral regions,
supporting job security in our aviation industry.
Aviation isn't just about aircraft and airports; it's a conduit
connecting Malta to the world and vice-versa. It plays a
multi-dimensional role, driving our economy, tourism, and
connectivity, thus promoting steady employment in various
sectors.
Recognizing this, the Government has always championed the
aviation sector. In 2013, we took the groundbreaking step of
establishing the first-ever aviation advisory committee. This
committee, bolstered by industry experts, professionals, and
public entity representatives, has been instrumental in shaping
our approach, contributing to better employment opportunities.
I am committed, as the Minister for Transport, to oversee the
green transition of our aviation sector, guaranteeing the safety
and aspirations of our citizens and businesses, and ensuring
that employment opportunities continue to flourish.
This will entail collaboration from all stakeholders, but the
rewards are manifold: economic growth, improved operational
efficiency, enhanced brand reputation, and most importantly,
a sustainable future for all, creating and safeguarding
employment for years to come.
In conclusion, aviation in Malta is not just a sector; it's a lifeline,
supporting not only our economy and connectivity but also
creating jobs and livelihoods for our citizens. Our commitment
is unwavering, and our vision clear.
We will continue to invest, innovate, and integrate sustainability
at every step, not only ensuring the sector's prosperity but also
promoting a brighter, greener, and more connected future for
the Maltese Islands, with ample employment opportunities for
our people. ●
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EDITION IV | P.15
CEO's Vision:
A Q&A with Jonathan
Borg on Leading
Aviation & Maritime at
Transport Malta
Introduction and Vision
Mr. Borg, could you please introduce yourself,
highlighting your background and share your vision for
Transport Malta?
My vision for Transport Malta is for the authority to be a more
agile organisation with long term mission and commercial
viability. With 32 years’ experience in leading operations for
the drilling and maritime service companies in public and
private sectors, I have managed to steer complex project plans,
obtained resources, identified and mitigated risks.
The responsibility of overseeing diverse sectors such as
maritime, aviation, and land transport brings with it a sense of
immense responsibility and the opportunity to make a tangible
impact on the lives of our citizens.
I am committed to steering the Authority of Transport Malta
towards continued growth and development, ensuring that we
meet the evolving needs of our society while upholding the
highest standards of service delivery, safety, and environmental
sustainability.
Synergies between Aviation and Maritime
Could you elaborate on how the aviation industry, under
Transport Malta's purview, has taken inspiration from the
INTERVIEW
maritime sector's success? What strategies have been
employed to replicate this success in aviation?"
While the two industries are intrinsically different, and serve
different niches when TM was established the two industries
enjoyed mutual benefits from a common structure.
Growth in 9H Registry
The 9H registry has seen remarkable growth over the past
decade. Could you discuss the factors contributing to this
growth and your plans to sustain and further enhance this
trend?
Country embarked on a journey in 2008 to grow the industry.
There are several factors one can mention that contributed to
this growth.
—
A relatively small directorate with non-bureaucratic
processes.
—
Highly qualified and experienced personnel that ensure all
legal and safety obligations are met.
—
Very efficient processes and non-ambiguous local
legislation. A common statement that undertakings
mention when choosing Malta is the adherence to
European rules and standards without additional red tape.
As a signature of Cape Town convention re-assures asset
owners of their rights on their assets. This has increased the
attractiveness of the 9H-aircraft register.
At this point in time the authority should ensure that the
existing industry maintains a high level of safety standards.
Consequently, the level of safety oversight by the authority
has to match the industry scale and expectations of the same
operators but also bodies such as EASA and ICAO.
To further sustain the industry, investment in employee training
is required. Furthermore being a very competitive industry the
authority faces challenges to retain its employees, as such this
is something that I will ensure improves.
The authority is in a position to consolidate its position and not
only look after growth but sustainable growth that provides real
added value.
Relationship and Guidance for the Civil
Aviation Directorate (CAD)
As the CEO of Transport Malta, you oversee CAD. Could
you discuss the guidance you provide to ensure effective
regulatory oversight and growth in the aviation sector?
What strategies do you employ to support CAD in its role?
Constant contact with the employees is key. Admittedly this is
not an easy feat, due to the size of the authority however this
is important to keep abreast of the challenges our employees
face when performing their tasks.
Another challenge is to keep the CAD properly staffed with
qualified and experienced personnel. Under my remit, the
CAD has performed and needs to keep a recruitment drive
that should ensure the correct level of safety oversight is
maintained.
Sustainability Initiatives
In today's environmentally conscious world, how is
Transport Malta, promoting sustainability and eco-friendly
practices in both the aviation and maritime sectors? Can
you share any specific initiatives or goals in this regard?
Maritime – With respect of international shipping the authority
firmly believes that sustainability initiatives should always
be dealt with at the global level under the Auspices of the
international Maritime organization (IMO). With regards to the
Maritime Ports sector, Malta is investing heavily in onshore
power supply (OPS) in both Grand Harbour and also the
container terminal located in the port of Marsaxlokk.
Whilst Malta will continue to support the introduction of
environmentally sustainable initiatives, one needs also to
ensure that competitivity is not compromised. In this particular
sense Malta together with other EU member states needs
to ensure that shipping emission trading schemes (ETS)
applicable for the Mediterranean sea and region are introduced
in such a way that we do not lose out port business to non-EU
ports in the region.
Aviation - CAD is practically working in a paperless method
where necessary. The authority may explore more ways to
digitalise processes. CAD needs to keep abreast of developing
technologies and has already certified a few drone companies
that prove to be a cleaner alternative.
The advent of eVTOL's and in the more distant future use of
airships may be of interest in the local scene. ●
INTERVIEW
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AVIATION MALTA
EDITION IV | P.17
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW
Speaking to Captain Charles Pace is never easy because
one has so many questions for him. Having interviewed
Captain Pace for four years for this magazine, I can conclude
that through Malta’s Civil Aviation Directorate, he has given
us one of the most stringent inspectorates, yet the most
entrepreneurial. Now, this would appear to be a paradox. How
could the words “stringent” and “entrepreneurial” appear in the
same sentence? Yet, Captain Pace manages it.
Andrew Shameen, the Editor of Aviation
Malta magazine was fortunate enough to meet
Captain Pace again, where he outlined his
current take on the industry and his thoughts
for the future. Buckle up, it could get bumpy…
Bolder,
brighter and
more agile.
Captain Charles Pace’s vision for the
Maltese aviation industry.
Captain Charles Pace
Director General for Civil Aviation at Transport Malta CAD
Captain Charles Pace (CP): 2023 felt like a fairground
adventure—full of twists and turns. High demand, increased
fares, and organised airlines injected much-needed cash into
the industry. Malta saw a 6.5% increase in arrivals since 2019,
but the shadow of repaying $56 billion of state aid loomed
over airlines. Recovery isn't just about filling aircraft; it's about
managing financial obligations.
AS: Let's delve into the industry's resilience.
CP: COVID transformed airlines, making them more responsive
and creative. They're now better equipped to adapt to a shifting
landscape. Winter sun destinations are evolving, with people
exploring new markets like Sri Lanka and Tanzania. The industry
faces challenges with the delivery of new aircraft, notably the
Pratt and Whitney issue causing late deliveries and impacting
market dynamics.
AS: What's the buzz at CAD? Any exciting news?
CP: Our aircraft registry, now boasting over 850 entries,
reflects robust demand for start-ups. The new Air Navigation
Act, in its final stages, introduces just culture principles and
acknowledges emerging tech like unmanned aircraft. CAD
actively supports EVTOLS, and Malta recently hosted the
European Civil Aviation Conference, earning praise for progress
in civil aviation. We're actively consulted on aircraft leasing,
gearing up Malta for this niche.
AS: What lies ahead?
CP: Preparations are underway for CAAF/3, the third ICAO
Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels. We prioritise
environmental concerns and resist increased taxation without
direct environmental project funding. Malta's registry should
delve into carbon offsetting, favouring nature-based projects.
Cybersecurity is paramount, and CAD actively recruits to meet
customer demand and attract more FDI to Malta.
AS: Looking into the future?
CP: Malta urgently needs a new GA runway. My proposal is to
reclaim land for an 800-meter runway, upgrading facilities for
the general aviation community. Seaplanes could become a
major feature, necessitating new infrastructure. Swift action is
vital for future success, and we're focused on being agile and
adaptable to industry trends.
The outlook for 2024:
P. 18 | EDITION IV
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EDITION IV | P.19
Enemed Co. Ltd stands as a pivotal player
in Malta's aviation industry, ensuring
the seamless supply of aviation fuel to
the island's bustling airport. Under the
guidance of its dedicated Executive
Chairman, Kevin Chircop, the company
has established itself as a prime example
of resilience and innovation in the aviation
fuel sector. In this corporate overview,
we delve into Enemed's journey, its
commitment to sustainability, and its
readiness to embrace the future.
Background and Resilience:
Enemed's commitment to providing
a resilient supply chain for aviation
fuel is paramount. The company's
strategic location near the airport and
vertically integrated operations are key
components of its success. Enemed
boasts an underground ocean terminal
with pipelines connected directly to
the airport, ensuring a swift and secure
supply of fuel. This investment in
infrastructure allowed the company to
adapt to the industry's growth, serving
aviation's skyrocketing demands. Enemed
recognized the potential challenges
presented by the aviation sector's
exponential growth, prompting the
company to dismantle its older facilities
from the 1930s and invest in new ones
in 2021. This foresight ensures that they
have enough capacity to meet airport
Enemed Co. Ltd: Fueling Malta's Aviation
Industry with Resilience and Innovation
PROFILE
requirements for the next decade. With
16 tanks at their underground facility,
Enemed currently uses only a fraction
of this capacity for jet fuel, leaving room
for future scalability. Moreover, Enemed
anticipates that the ongoing transition to
electric vehicles will eventually free up
50% of their capacity as petrol demands
decrease. The company's ability to adapt
and plan for sustainable growth positions
them favorably in the aviation fuel industry.
Supply Chain and Geopolitical
Challenges:
Geopolitical challenges can have a
significant impact on the aviation fuel
industry. Enemed experienced such
challenges in the past year. The company
navigated these turbulent waters by
contracting with various suppliers to
ensure a consistent flow of aviation fuel,
even when facing increased costs due to
geopolitical uncertainties. The situation
has now stabilized, and the market is less
volatile. Enemed's resilience and ability
to find alternative solutions highlight
their proactive approach to supply chain
management. In an ever-changing global
landscape, Enemed remains protected
and prepared for future challenges,
especially through its diversified supply
chain and flexible infrastructure.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
and Environmental Responsibility:
The aviation industry is under growing
pressure to reduce its environmental
impact. Enemed recognizes the
importance of sustainable aviation fuel
(SAF) and is ready to supply it. They are
already in contact with SAF suppliers and
are poised to meet the demand when it
arises. The challenge lies in convincing
airlines to adopt SAF, as it often comes
at an additional cost. Enemed believes
the transition to SAF is inevitable and
is advocating for the European Union
to mandate its use to ensure a greener
aviation future. Enemed's dedication to
sustainability extends beyond SAF. They
have made substantial efforts to minimize
their impact on the environment, including
switching their entire fleet of fuel bowsers
to use synthetic fuel, which reduces
carbon emissions. Additionally, they
have invested in advanced technology
for environmental safeguards and are
working towards automating their fuel
ordering system to enhance efficiency
and reduce fueling times on the airport
apron.
Innovations and Collaborations:
Enemed has enthusiastically adopted
technological advancements to
enhance operational efficiency. Their
automation systems, responsible for
fuel management and tank operations at
the airport, exemplify their dedication to
safety and efficiency. Moreover, they are in
the process of automating customer fuel
requests, which will improve fueling speed
and airline turnaround times—a critical
aspect of airport operations. In addition
to their tech-driven approach, Enemed
is highly committed to collaborative
partnerships. Although their primary focus
is within Malta, they harbor ambitions
to expand to regional airports. These
collaborations with airports, airlines, and
fuel companies will play a pivotal role in
their expansion strategy. ●
INTERVIEW
AS: Reflecting on the paradox of "stringent" and
"entrepreneurial" aspects within Malta’s Civil Aviation
Directorate, how do you manage to strike that balance?
CP: It's about finding harmony between enforcing regulations
rigorously and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit. We ensure
safety and compliance while encouraging innovation. It's a
delicate equilibrium, but it has allowed us to be a stringent yet
entrepreneurial directorate.
AS: Speaking of the fairground analogy for 2023, can you
elaborate on some of the "scary roller coaster rides" and
"humorous interludes" the aviation industry experienced?
CP: The "scary roller coaster rides" encompassed challenges
like late aircraft deliveries due to the Pratt and Whitney issue,
which had a cascading effect on the market. On the flip side,
the "humorous interludes" were moments of unexpected
positive turns—increased demand, higher fares, and airlines
becoming more organised.
AS: You mentioned the challenges airlines faced in
repaying state aid. How can the industry navigate these
financial hurdles effectively?
CP: Navigating financial challenges involves a multi-faceted
approach. While increased demand and higher fares are
positive, significant funds are still directed towards clearing
COVID-era debts. Addressing financial obligations is integral
to recovery, ensuring a balance between profitability and
managing outstanding debts.
AS: The Pratt and Whitney issue seems to have had a
significant impact on the industry. Can you delve deeper
into how this has affected the delivery of new aircraft?
CP: The Pratt and Whitney issue has led to late deliveries,
creating a ripple effect. Airlines that would have sold off older
aircraft for newer models are now stuck, as manufacturers or
sellers are not releasing the new ones. This not only affects
the market dynamics but also elevates costs. It's a complex
situation with implications for both airlines and manufacturers.
AS: Regarding the Air Navigation Act, could you provide
more details on how it aims to modernise regulations and
embrace emerging technologies?
CP: The new Air Navigation Act is a crucial step towards
modernising our regulatory framework. It removes outdated
references, introduces just culture principles, and embraces
emerging technologies like unmanned aircraft. The focus is
on creating a regulatory environment that is not only robust
but also adaptable to the evolving landscape of the aviation
industry.
AS: Hosting the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC)
summer meeting is a significant achievement. Can you
share more insights into the discussions and outcomes of
the meeting?
CP: The ECAC summer meeting was a platform for Director
Generals from across Europe to discuss industry challenges.
With representatives from 40 out of 44 countries, the meeting
featured discussions with ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos
Salazar. The praise for Malta's progress in civil aviation was a
testament to our efforts. The success of the event is expected
to attract similar gatherings to Malta, further enhancing our
standing in the aviation community.
AS: CAAF/3 is a pivotal conference on aviation and
alternative fuels. How does Malta plan to contribute to the
global framework for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)?
CP: CAAF/3 is a crucial event where we will review the 2050
ICAO Vision for Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Our aim is to
establish a global framework aligned with the No Country
Left Behind initiative. Malta, recognizing the importance
of environmental responsibility, emphasises the need
for a strategic approach to SAF and explores cleaner
energy alternatives. We oppose increased taxation without
corresponding environmental project funding, advocating for a
balanced and sustainable approach to aviation.
AS: You've emphasised the need for Malta to act swiftly,
particularly in building a new GA runway. How do you
envision this impacting the aviation landscape in Malta?
CP: Malta urgently needs a new GA runway, and my proposal
to reclaim land for an 800-metre runway is aimed at upgrading
facilities for the general aviation community. This, coupled
with the Gozo airfield, could bring about a significant change
in mentality regarding mobility. Seaplanes, with some new
infrastructure, could become a major feature, adding diversity
to Malta's aviation landscape. ●