Possible change at the helm of Air Malta

Sonny Portelli is the favourite to be the next chairman of Air Malta, with Lawrence Zammit widely expected to step down from the role in the coming days, according to sources.

It is understood that Mr Portelli, who is chairman of both Go plc and the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development, has already been approached on the matter.

When contacted, Finance Minister Tonio Fenech said a decision on the issue had not yet been taken by Cabinet. But it is expected to be settled before the airline's annual general meeting on Thursday.

When asked if the government had offered Mr Portelli the post, Mr Fenech preferred not to comment. "When decisions are taken, they will be announced," he said.

Mr Zammit was appointed Air Malta chairman in June 2003 at a time when the airline was plagued with debt. He piloted the airline through a rescue plan but the company is still in the red - by about €25 million.

Over the past months, there has been speculation that Mr Zammit intended to resign even though Mr Fenech expressed confidence in him, saying the government's trust in the chairman was "unquestioned".

When contacted yesterday, Mr Zammit said he did not wish to comment on speculation, saying the decision would be taken during the company's annual general meeting.

"I would like to stay on as chairman but neither do I have a problem leaving," he said, adding he had no further comments to make.