New Maltese airline flying from Sicily

European 2000 Airlines - a new Maltese-owned and registered airline company flying between Sicily and Malta - had its maiden flight yesterday.

Italian dignitaries from the travel industry as well as journalists were flown to Malta for a familiarisation tour of the Maltese islands. They are being hosted by the Malta Tourism Authority.

Airline director and chief executive officer Ray Micallef and Antonello Accardi, director of Sicilian tour operator Scirocco World Travel recently signed an agreement to start frequent charter services between Trapani and Malta.

The agreement launched a two-year partnership during which all close Italian destinations would progressively be made available by air for both Maltese and Sicilians.

The airline aims to not only offer a quality service at affordable prices but also an alternative to traditional airlines. Initially, flights will originate from Trapani with Catania and Palermo to follow suit. These departure points will connect to Malta, Tunisia and Tripoli. Trapani Birgi airport will act as the main hub serving the local community in particular, as well as offering a quick and efficient convention to foreign transit passengers.

"Our competitive prices will complement our clients' demand and frequency," said Mr Micallef, adding that international travel was expensive enough and costs would be kept to a minimum in line with the airline's low fare structure and operation.

"We have established a call centre in Trapani as well as one in our head office at Luqa to better serve our clients' needs," he said.

European 2000 Airlines holds a European Joint Airworthiness Authorities Air Operator's Certificate as well as a Malta Department of Civil Aviation Air Service License to transport passengers and cargo by air.

The company's flight reservation offices are at Luqa, tel. 2180 4187.