Air Malta has concluded talks and the necessary paperwork to lease two new A320 Neo aircraft which will replace two of the current older aircraft.

The delivery of the new aircraft is expected to happen during the first half of 2019.

According to sources, the seat configuration of these planes will optimise the space in the aircraft, which allows Air Malta to be able to offer a high number of seats while providing adequate leg-space for passengers on the aircraft.

The two new Airbus A320 NEOs will also see Air Malta improve its in-flight experience, including a renewed business class offer with better seats and better service.

The upgrade of the business class product was announced by Minister Konrad Mizzi following the launch of the new buy on board service and new catering menu for economy class.

The new NEOs will reduce the environmental impact of Air Malta, in terms of emission of pollutants and noise.

To reduce maintenance time and costs

The NEO is quieter and more efficient of the older comparable aircrafts which Air Malta already has. It reduces the noise footprint by half, 15 per cent less fuel consumption, reduced Co2 emissions and NOx emissions which are 50 per cent better than current industry standards

The reduced emissions of noise and pollutants of the A320 Neos will allow Air Malta to reduce the landing costs in airports that are increasingly adopting policies and charges aimed to improve reducing the environmental (noise and pollutants) of the aircraft landing.

Apart from such benefits, having a younger aircraft would help Air Malta reduce maintenance time and costs, and as such minimize delays on the routes operated by the airline.

The sources added that as part of its long-term plan, Air Malta plans to continue introducing the NEO technology to its fleet.

The first A320 Neo was leased by Air Malta last June and was branded in special Nickelodeon livery.