Low-cost airline Ryanair is close to agreeing a long-term deal with the government to base one of its aircraft in Malta, according to sources.

This aircraft is expected to operate on several new routes, including two in Spain and one in the Netherlands.

It is hoped the move will attract more visitors to Malta and sources said it was necessary because the trend among modern-day travellers was to go away more often but stay for fewer nights.

The sources said the government - not Ryanair - will have the final say on the routes serviced by the aircraft since it is keen to ensure that routes serviced by other carriers and tour operators are not adversely affected by this agreement. Ryanair agreed to this condition after initial opposition.

The proposal to base at least one aircraft in Malta has been on the table for some time. Low-cost airlines currently have around 20 per cent of the market in Malta, while the national airline accounts for over 55 per cent.

The Tourism Ministry declined to comment when contacted for a reaction.

Ryanair continued to experience an increase in passengers via Malta in 2009 and further growth was expected this year.

The Irish airline saw a 13 per cent increase in passengers to Malta in 2009, helping its market share improve to 15 per cent - second only to Air Malta. From March, the low-cost airline will be linking Malta with 14 destinations.