Malta-operated surveillance plane to be deployed in fight against illegal fishing

The government has announced that a fisheries surveillance aircraft will operate from Malta this year as part of a pilot project in the fight against illegal fishing.

The aircraft will enable a faster response to reports of illegal fishing, Fisheries Minister Anton Refalo said. He added that the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) plane had previously been deployed from Sicily or other locations in Italy, but was now being operated from Malta following requests by Maltese authorities.

The move is intended to improve monitoring at sea and strengthen enforcement against illegal fishing, including by vessels from third countries.

The announcement came during a visit by Refalo to Maltese fishermen at sea as part of the government’s 100 Days With You campaign, during which he observed operations during the lampuki fishing season.

Refalo joined fishermen on one of the fishing zones allocated for lampuki fishing, following the process from their arrival at the zones and setting of kannizzati to the catching of lampuki.

The government said the drone would allow authorities to react more quickly to reports of illegal fishing, while strengthening their capacity to monitor activity at sea.

Malta has also been working at European and regional level to strengthen enforcement against illegal fishing by vessels from third countries. In recent years, EFCA has allocated a vessel specifically for control operations in the Mediterranean.

The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture is also submitting evidence, including information provided by Maltese fishermen, to relevant international forums. The government said this was intended to increase pressure on third-country authorities to act against illegal practices and, where necessary, impose sanctions, including listing vessels found to be engaged in illegal fishing.

Lampuki fishing is a traditional part of Malta’s fishing sector. Fishermen use kannizzati, which include palm leaves, to create shade on the surface of the sea and attract lampuki. Fishing zones are allocated by the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture to ensure the activity is carried out in an organised manner and in line with applicable regulations.

The government said it was continuing to support fishermen through various initiatives and schemes, including the distribution of palm leaves ahead of the lampuki season and investment aimed at improving working conditions, sustainability and the resilience of the sector.

During the visit, Refalo said he had seen first-hand the work, experience and dedication behind each catch. He described fishermen as an important part of Malta’s maritime identity and their role in supplying fresh, locally caught food as essential.

Refalo also urged Maltese and Gozitan fishermen to continue observing fishing laws and regulations and directions issued by the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

He said compliance was essential for Malta to maintain its position and credibility in European and international forums where the interests of the Maltese fishing sector are discussed and protected.

The minister also thanked the Armed Forces of Malta for their continued work, protection and coordination with the relevant authorities, particularly during an important period for Maltese and Gozitan fishermen.

The government said it would continue investing in the fishing sector while working to protect the interests of Maltese and Gozitan fishermen and ensure the sustainable use of marine resources.