Air Malta once again finds itself under financial pressure due to increased competition and the suspension of flights to Libya, one of the airline’s profitable routes, CEO Louis Giordimaina said yesterday.

He was commenting as Joseph Galea, 50, has been appointed Air Malta’s deputy chief commercial officer.

Mr Galea and his present boss, whom he will succeed in three years, will be tasked with finding ways to develop a top revenue line that is healthy and sustainable, two things that continue to evade the airline despite the ongoing implementation of the restructuring plan, Mr Giordimaina said.

It is the first time the airline has spoken about the pressures it is facing to implement the restructuring plan launched in 2010 as a last-ditch attempt to save the legacy carrier.

So far, the figures have been positive, sometimes better than projected. Last year, it made an operating loss of €13.7 million in the financial year, down from €29.7 million in 2012, and €34.1 million in 2011.

The airline said yesterday it had begun a drive to rebuild its management team, starting with Mr Galea’s appointment.

It has issued an international call to assume the post of chief commercial officer, formerly held by Philip Saunders.

Mr Galea will succeed the selected chief commercial officer after a definite three-year period, during which he will gain sufficient airline experience to steer the commercial department.

It is extremely difficult to find Maltese candidates who have the necessary commercial airline experience for such a role

Air Malta chairperson Maria Micallef said it is clear that Air Malta’s management team must enjoy a deep love and understanding of the product they are selling.

“However, it is extremely difficult to find Maltese candidates who also have the necessary commercial airline experience for such a role.

“Through these appointments, we will be using international expertise to develop Maltese talent. This type of succession planning, which has been absent from the airline in recent years, ensures continuity for years to come,” she said.