AD calls for further study into Gozo air link

Alternattiva Demokratika said yesterday it welcomed news that the air link between Gozo and Malta would be restored by May but urged the authorities and those concerned in this venture to explore other venues for the seaplane landing in Gozo.

Rather than concentrating all services from Mgarr harbour, one needs to explore the possibility of developing the harbour in Marsalforn, Victor Galea, AD's secretary general and spokesman for Gozo affairs, said that "Marsalforn has developed into one of Gozo's most popular sea resorts. It is well serviced by restaurants, shops, and diving centres. Works on the existing Marsalforn breakwater can facilitate the smooth landing of the seaplane."

Mr Galea also called for a reform of public transport in Gozo, pointing out it would be useless transporting tourists to a resort without convenient and reliable public transport. Mini-bus services should be available from the seaplane landing area to various parts of the island. The same could be said for people arriving in Gozo by ferry after 7 p.m. when not even a bus service to Victoria is available.

Mr Galea also said that it would be ideal if the aircraft (which will be an amphibian) would operate from Malta International Airport directly to Gozo, so that it could better cater for foreign travellers who wish to go directly to Gozo. He also called for a direct link between Gozo and Sicily, both by air and by sea, for tourism purposes.