Arriva is considering the introduction of double decker buses on some of its routes, the bus operator's head said in an interview on TVM today.

Richard Hall said the recent introduction of the Arriva summer schedule had been well received, with better timing and more buses where they were needed.

He said the introduction of double-deckers would depend on the infrastructure.

The use of double decker route buses would not be new - the first route buses to be introduced in Malta were actually double deckers. Four double deckers and one single decker - were ordered in 1905 from the UK and served irregularly between Valletta and St Julian's.

Former London double deckers were introduced a few years ago as unscheduled tour buses.

Arriva Malta is under pressure to replace some of its long 'bendy' buses on some routes, but Mr Hall defended their use. The bendy buses, he said, were here to stay because they were major people-movers that helped to ease congestion. The bendy buses were serving major routes, having been moved away from routes where they were unsuited.

Mr Hall said Arriva ferried 15,000 people on the night of the Isle of MTV last week.

He said the company would have talks with the authorities to further improve services for the winter schedule, which will be introduced in November.