Helicopter service resumes today

The Spanish company Helicopteros del Sureste SA last Tuesday launched its helicopter service, resuming the air link between Malta and Gozo. Competition Minister Censu Galea, Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono and a group of journalists were on the maiden flight.

A regular service starts today. The summer schedule, with an average of 18 flights a day, ends on October 29. The company, which has signed a five-year contract for the provision of the air link, will operate eight flights a day in winter. A Bell 412 helicopter will be used.

Speaking to the media at Xewkija heliport, Mrs Debono thanked all those who worked for the service to be resumed. She said the new airlink, which was of a high standard for both tourists and Gozitans, continued to emphasise Gozo as a high quality tourist destination.

She also said that Helicopteros del Sureste will offer the service at reduced prices whenever the Gozo ferry will not operate due to bad weather.

Mr Galea said the company, which will in due course be employing locals to run its service, complements Government's intention to attract new commercial interests to the country, providing a leap in quality standards and being competitive within the various services offered by the country.

These qualities provide added value in Gozo's tourist and commercial needs in further attracting individuals to visit the island and various other initiatives, which the Spanish company is interested in pursuing within this sector.

Helicopteros del Sureste operations manager Antonio Martinez-Garcia stressed the importance of the service to promote tourism in Gozo.

A two-way ticket for local residents costs Lm26; it costs Lm50 for tourists.