Over 60,000 passengers expected at Malta International Airport over the holidays

Projections show that the busiest days will be December 23 and 27, with some 30,000 passengers expected to touch down before Christmas and another 30,000 expected before New Year’s Eve

11 December 2015, 4:39pm

2 min read

Christmas and New Year are expected to bring around 60,000 people to Malta, as the Maltese living around the globe begin flying back home to spend the season with family and friends.

Arrivals will soon outnumber departures at Malta International Airport and enthusiastic families will fill the Welcomers Hall, eager to be reunited with loved ones.

Projections show that the busiest days will be December 23 and 27, with some 30,000 passengers expected to touch down before Christmas and another 30,000 expected before New Year’s Eve.

In the run-up to Christmas the airport has been transformed into a bustling flurry of festivity including a Christmas Village, Santa’s Corner and an arts and crafts area where children can make their own Christmas cards and decorations. Meanwhile at the Departures area musicians and performers will be keeping the atmosphere cheerful as passengers shop for last minute gifts, taking advantage of the free wrapping service.

With a cosy ambiance, convenient shopping and lots of fun activities for families, the perfect Christmas awaits at Malta International Airport.

Travelling or picking someone up from the airport this Christmas? Here are some seasonal tips to help you along:

1. Getting to the airport

On busy departure days, plan ahead and aim to get to the airport a little earlier. If you leave your car in the car park, taking a photo of the nearest directional sign can be a useful way of finding it more easily on your way back.

2. Checking-in

Check-in online to save time and don’t forget to bring your passport or identity card.

3. Getting through security

During the Christmas season you may be planning to travel with items you don’t normally carry in your hand luggage, such as gifts or food. Make sure that you haven’t packed any prohibited items such as knives or scissors and try to keep any liquids, creams and gels in your checked-in baggage. If you’re only carrying hand luggage, then remember that these should be held in containers with a maximum capacity of 100ml and presented in a re-sealable, transparent plastic bag. Some toys, games and gadg-ets do contain liquids which you may forget about, so make a list of things you’re taking and check it twice.