On Sunday night, January 10, 2021, Air Malta flight KM423 carried the first shipment of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine from Brussels to the Maltese islands. The carrier is expected to carry more consigned vaccine shipments in the coming weeks.
On Monday (January 11, 2021), Air Mata announced that they have transported the first shipment of Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to the islands. The Moderna vaccine is the second vaccine approved for use in the European Union and the carrier expects to transport additional consigned shipments in the coming weeks. Air Malta has prepared for months to carry the critical vaccine shipments by receiving the necessary certifications and updating operational processes and procedures. Speaking on the first vaccine shipment’s arrival at Malta International Airport, Air Malta’s Executive Chairman, David G. Curmi, said,
“We are thrilled to be part of this global effort to transport this vaccine and help our Islands achieve immunity against this disease which has caused so much suffering to the world’s population. COVID-19 has thrown the air transport industry into a deep crisis, but the industry will ultimately be the main driver to help end this pandemic. Air Malta will continue being of strategic importance to the Islands by stepping up and offering support when the need arises.”
Over the last few months, Air Malta has carried over 2,600 tons of critical cargo including medicine, vaccines, PPE, electronics, mail and perishables. The carrier also organized special freighter charters on behalf of the Maltese Government to carry hundreds of tons of additional medical supplies, radioactive materials for treatment regimens at Mater Dei Hospital and the seasonal influenza vaccine to the islands.
Founded in 1974, Air Malta is the airline of the Maltese Islands and under normal market conditions usually serves 35 destinations across Europe and the Mediterranean. The carrier is undergoing a vital restructuring, in accordance with EU requirements on state aid, to secure a sustainable and profitable future. Air Malta’s mission is to become recognized as one of the world’s leading destination airlines.
Source: Air Malta