Ryanair today celebrated carrying its nine millionth passenger in Malta since it began operating in the country in 2006. 

The budget airline's first passengers to Malta arrived from Pisa and Luton, with the two flights landing within minutes of each other back in November 2006. 

By 2012, the airline was carrying more than one in every four passengers coming through Malta International Airport, and the Dublin-based airline announced last year that it aimed to become Malta's number 1 carrier by this year, with a target of more than 2 million passengers per year. 

"The Maltese authorities recognise the significant contribution by Ryanair to increase the number and frequency of direct airline routes. We have established an excellent working relationship with Ryanair based on mutual respect and understanding," Tourism Minister Konrad Mizzi said. 

To celebrate its nine million milestone, Ryanair is releasing €19.99 seats for travel between September and November. The sale will run until midnight of this coming Friday, 21 July on the airline's website.