Ever wondered what it feels like to pass through Malta International Airport the VIP way, without having to queue up for check-ins and security before boarding a flight?
For the first time, the ministerial lounge – previously restricted to high government officials – has been opened up to people willing to fork out €175 (for a one-way passenger) or €300 both ways.
The airport had long felt the need for a VIP terminal, which would cater for high-class tourists, MIA CEO Markus Klaushofer explained to Times of Malta.
The government previously only allowed the ministerial lounge to be used by high government officials, Cabinet members and their delegations on official visits, top Church officials and other dignitaries at the Prime Minister’s discretion.
MIA, Mr Klaushofer continued, had discussed opening up part of the ministerial lounge for paying customers with the previous government but discussions had stalled.
We want to ensure that the first and last impression of Malta is a good one
After having been given the go-ahead by the current government, MIA refurbished the building at a cost of €450,000, elegantly furnishing the rooms with stylish chairs and colourful artwork decorating the muted walls.
Part of the area will still be exclusively reserved for high government officials – the presidential room is to be used solely by the President and Prime Ministers, while two adjacent rooms are for their entourage. The entrances are also separate.
Passengers paying for service will be greeted by a receptionist at the VIP terminal to have their luggage checked in.
They will then proceed to the screening area to go through all the necessary security checks in privacy after being led to a waiting area which offers snacks and beverages.
Passengers can spend some 90 minutes at the waiting area or, if they wish, can have the entire process carried out in 10 minutes flat.
The VIP terminal will be reserved for one VIP passenger and his accompanying party at a time.
“We want to ensure that the first and last impression of Malta is a good one. A VIP terminal is a standard feature in a number of airports.
“Having a VIP terminal helps up Malta’s tourism product, adequately catering for high-class tourists.”
Chief commercial officer Alan Borg said handlers of private jets had often mentioned the fact that their clients wished to see a VIP terminal they could make use of.
“It’s a test for us as well. If there’s a demand, we don’t exclude further expanding the area.”
The first guest to enjoy the newly refurbished premises was Prince William. Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie also made use of it some days ago.