The aviation sector could become one of Malta’s main industries to rival the much touted financial services and Igaming sectors, Tourism Minister Karmenu Vella said earlier today.

Addressing a press conference ahead of the Air X Malta International Air Show, Mr Vella said the new national aviation policy would work hand in hand with increased investment to bolster the “potential rich” sector.

Last week the minister announced that the national policy was being drafted by the Consultative Aviation Advisory Committee and would aim at enhancing the island’s growing aircraft register and as well as promoting the island as a hub and bridge to North Africa.

Air X, the main sponsors of the airshow, welcomed the Mr Vella’s commitment.

Air X Chairman John Matthews told timesofmalta.com he believed that the success of Malta’s maritime industry could be mirrored in the aviation sector.

Mr Matthews announced the company’s internship scheme which will be geared towards helping local youths follow their dream of becoming a pilot.

“Our pledge to sponsor this air show and the internship programme show our commitment towards making Malta the hub it deserve to be”

The company, which caters to Alist celebrities and members of the royal family, recently relocated to Malta and is in the process of increasing its number of planes on the local register to half of their owned aircraft.

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