The Gozo Tourism Association refers to the contribution by Franco J. Scicluna (July 25) entitled Serious Inter-island Air Service.

We would like to reiterate that, since its inception in February 1999, our stand regarding the air link between Malta and Gozo has always been in favour of an air strip. Time has proven that a helicopter service can never be a financially-profitable operation without any form of subsidy.

Thus, a helicopter service is not sustainable. The previous operations by the Malta Aircharter Co. Ltd and the Spanish company Helisureste are witness to this.

The association and its members are living the experience of the absence of an air strip and are fully aware what tourism on Gozo is losing through this lack of alternative service.

The number of operators and individual travellers who ask for a fixed-wing service is ample support of our belief.

Furthermore, a fixed-wing operation on Gozo will open up other opportunities that the island needs to enhance its primary tourism industry.

The future of the tourism industry on Gozo relies on the availability of an air strip, well situated and blending with the Gozitan countryside.

Only serious and balanced development will keep our beautiful island marketable with so many emerging, enchanting destinations worldwide.

The association takes this opportunity to encourage the government for the umpteenth time to take the bold decision in favour of an air strip and surely in favour of Gozo.