A strike by pilots at Air Malta was called off this afternoon after three hours of talks between the Prime Minister, the pilots' union (ALPA) and Air Malta.

"All strike actions by the pilots have been withdrawn," a statement issued jointly said.

During the meeting, the two parties agreed to work closely in securing a better deal for Air Malta with MIA, improving the performance of Air Malta, seeking new opportunities on cargo, and facing all challenges that will turn around the profitability of the company.

"On the issues pertaining to the complement of pilots within the restructuring process, while ALPA recognises the need to reduce the number of pilots, management will engage in active discussions with ALPA to maximise utilisation of the crew compliment," the statement said.

The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Tonio Fenech, the Chairman of Air Malta, Louis Farrugia, CEO Peter Davies, ALPA president Capt. Dominic Azzopardi, Capt. Charmaine St John and First Officer Ryan Xuereb.

In the light of this agreement the company has also agreed to withdraw all legal action against the union.

The union had planned to hold the strike on Saturday.

Capt. Azzopardi said when asked that Friday's demonstration in Valletta, which will also include the participation of the General Workers' Union and the Union of Cabin Crew, and possibly the Association of Airline Engineers, is still on.

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