An Air Malta flight to Manchester yesterday afternoon had to turn back because of a discrepancy between the number of passengers on board and the luggage checked in, the airline said.

The flight departed at about 4pm and headed back shortly before reaching Sicily. The aircraft, an Airbus A319, landed safely and took off at about 5.30pm.

Air Malta said the matter was under investigation, stressing it always gave the utmost importance to the safety and well-being of passengers and crew while apologising for any inconvenience.

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