The more they fly

I have been reading with interest the numerous letters on low cost airlines, without mentioning any airline in particular. I cannot believe that instead of encouraging these airlines, which want to start operating to Malta, the local authorities seem to be doing their best to hinder them operating. Why?

There is no doubt that tourism is still Malta's number one source of income and as I have said in the past the sun doesn't only shine on Malta. Many people in the UK tend to take more than one holiday a year and many now like to take frequent short breaks, booked usually at the last minute. I live in Blackpool and many people I know travel from Blackpool Airport to Spain and Italy regularly, sometimes even just for a long weekend.

Once the availability is there the trend now is to get on a plane and jet off at short notice; it's as easy as getting on a train or bus. People think nothing of getting a three-hour flight, when the price is right. Many of my friends travel from Blackpool or Manchester for long weekends. Many nowadays think nothing of holding their hen and stag nights abroad. If more low cost flights were available then Malta would surely benefit.

Wake up Malta and grab every opportunity which is going to increase the number of tourists to the island. There is nothing to lose, visitors will need to book accommodation, eat and drink while in Malta, so no matter how long they come for money will be spent and everyone will benefit in one way or another. We just need to get them to Malta in the first place.