Malta-Gozo air link proposal

I have spent many years studying the re-introduction of an air link between Gozo and Malta International Airport and determining the most practical, inexpensive and environmentally-sound method of providing an air service between the islands. I have consulted with local businessmen, architects and international aviation experts and have drawn up a proposal.

Let me assure readers that the proposed operation will be restricted to a similar amount of passengers and freight as was handled by the 1990s' rotary wing service. The runway will be of a length and width so as to restrict access to aircraft capable of carrying up to 19 passengers and with a range of around 500 km. This will preclude pure-jet operation. The location will not allow for any extension.

There will be less aerial disruption because the take-off and approach of a fixed wing aircraft is less noisy. It is likely that the initial service could be operated by a single-engined aircraft similar to that used by the existing floatplane which flies between Grand Harbour, Xlendi and Mġarr.

Full details of the proposal are available from me on request at mercator@onvol.net. I have prepared a power-point presentation which is readily available.

The needs for this link are too many to enumerate here. Suffice it to say that the facility will allow residents, commerce, tourists and the population of Gozo to share the benefits that have accrued to Malta due to an expansion of air services in recent years.

Readers may have no fears about expansion. The proposed Gozo facility cannot be used as an alternate by low-cost airlines and the island will retain its peaceful environment, similar to that experienced in the 1990s.

The most important fact is that business, medical and educational professionals will be able to spend more time on the island during a daily visit.