Air transport

Since the first helicopter flight started to operate between Gozo and Malta in 1990, there has been an ongoing discussion on whether Gozo should have an airfield available also for fixed-wing aircraft.

For many governments this has always been a hot issue with the main opposition coming from the environmental camp. It has now become very clear that the helicopter link between Gozo and Malta is not providing the desired service for Gozo and its economy.

The time has now come for the government of the day to give this matter some serious thought.

We have to think outside the box and try to solve what is becoming a nightmare decision for the government to open up to low-cost airlines. One way this problem can be solved is for a small airport to be constructed on Gozo which could serve as a regional airport for these types of airlines.

It would not be a Herculean task for such an airport to be built on reclaimed land on a part of the island where the water is not too deep and where it would be feasible from an environmental point of view.

Obviously, the necessary environmental impact assessments would need to be carried out.

If such an airfield is realised it would solve the government's problem on the problematic issue of these airlines. It would also create job opportunities for the Gozitans as there could be a higher number of tourists who would decide to take their holiday in Gozo. We all know of the low room occupancy that the Gozitan hotelier experiences throughout the year. (The latest rumour is that another established hotel will be closing down soon).

The positive effects of such a venture will also be felt in the catering and services industry. Gozo Channel would become a more sustainable enterprise since people opting for a low-cost flight and deciding to take their holiday in Malta will need to hop on a ferry to reach their destination.

These same travellers could also provide extra revenue to the company operating the helicopter service should they take that travel option.

One other issue which would also be of benefit to all in Gozo is new ways of disposing of construction waste. Currently construction waste is either being thrown into an old quarry or dumped illegally in the countryside. At the going rate of development it will not be long before the quarry being used is full.

Has anyone ever come up with at least a feasibility study for such a project? The European Union provides help in the setting up of regional airports so the Maltese government can surely tap into the available funds for such a venture and in the process kill more than two birds with one stone.