Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Flights to Malta from the UK are plentiful, with direct services from many UK airports and several airlines competing on the route. The flight takes roughly three and a half hours, and the cheapest times to fly are usually outside the school holidays, particularly in the cooler months. The island has one international airport, so wherever you fly from, you land in the same place. Which airline, airport and month suits you best depends on your budget, your baggage needs and how hot you like it.
This guide covers which airlines have flown direct, how long the journey takes, when fares tend to be lowest and what to check about your passport. Routes, schedules, fares and entry rules change, so use the airline and official government websites for up-to-date information before you book.
Which airlines fly direct from the UK to Malta?
A mix of low-cost airlines, full-service carriers and holiday operators have served Malta from the UK. The exact line-up changes between seasons, so treat the list below as a starting point and confirm current routes on each airline’s website or a flight comparison site.
- Low-cost airlines. Airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair have operated routes from a number of UK airports. Fares can be low, but baggage, seat selection and other extras are usually charged separately.
- Full-service airlines. British Airways has flown from London, and the Maltese national carrier, now operating as KM Malta Airlines, has also served the UK. These airlines may include more in the base fare, but check what is included on your ticket.
- Holiday airlines. Operators such as Jet2 and TUI have offered flights as part of package holidays and sometimes as flight-only seats.
Not every airline flies from every airport, and some routes are seasonal. Always check the specific route for your dates.
Which UK airports have flights to Malta?
Malta is served from a wide range of UK airports. London airports, including Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted and Luton, are the most commonly used, and regional airports such as Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow have also had services. The selection varies by season, with more routes in summer than in winter.
If you live in Sussex, Gatwick is usually the most convenient option. Our holidays from Gatwick guide covers how to get there, parking and what to expect on the day. When you compare airports, look at the total cost, including transport and parking, and not just the headline fare.
Malta International Airport
All international flights arrive at Malta International Airport, near the village of Luqa in the south east of the island. Because Malta is small, most hotels are within a reasonable transfer time, though journey lengths vary by resort and by traffic. Check how you will get to your accommodation, whether by taxi, bus, pre-booked transfer or hire car.
How long is the flight from the UK to Malta?
Direct flights from London typically take around three and a half hours, and flights from northern England and Scotland can take a little longer. Exact times vary with wind, routing and the airline’s schedule. Indirect flights, which connect through another European airport, can take much longer, so check the total journey time rather than just the flight time.
Malta is one hour ahead of the UK for much of the year, so allow for that when you plan your arrival and any transfers. The gap can differ briefly when clocks change in different places, so check the arrival time printed on your ticket.
When are flights to Malta cheapest?
Fares depend on supply and demand, which means timing makes a big difference. As a broad pattern:
- Winter, excluding Christmas and New Year. Often the lowest fares, as demand is lower. Weather is milder than in most of the UK but can be wet and breezy, and some seasonal attractions and beach facilities close or run limited hours.
- Spring and autumn. A good balance of price and weather. Many people consider April to June and September to October a sweet spot, with warm days and fewer crowds than midsummer.
- Summer. The hottest and busiest period, and normally the most expensive, particularly during UK school holidays.
Within a week, midweek flights are often cheaper than Friday, Saturday or Sunday departures, although this is not guaranteed. Flexible date searches on airline sites and comparison tools can show the cheapest days across a month.
Tips for finding lower fares
- Search flexibly. Check a range of dates and nearby airports.
- Compare the full price. Add bags, seats and any airport transport to see the real cost.
- Book at a sensible time. Very early or very late can both be costly, so keep an eye on prices and book when a fare suits you.
- Consider a package. Sometimes flights bundled with a hotel are better value than booking separately. Our all inclusive holidays guide explains how to compare.
- Look for late offers. If you are flexible, see our last minute holidays guide.
Our cheap holidays guide has more ideas on keeping the overall cost down.
Do I need a passport for Malta?
Yes, you will need a passport to travel from the UK to Malta. However, entry requirements, including how long your passport must remain valid and its maximum age, can change. Check the latest guidance on the official UK government travel advice pages for Malta, and confirm the requirements with your airline, before you book and again before you travel.
Other points to check include:
- Whether any travel authorisation or other entry process applies to UK travellers at the time you travel.
- The rules on what you can bring, including medicines and food.
- Health insurance and the arrangements for medical care.
Do not rely on a summary written elsewhere, including this one, for entry rules. They are the sort of detail that is best checked at the source.
Baggage and what to check on your ticket
Baggage rules differ significantly between airlines, and they are a common reason for surprise charges. Before you pay, check:
- The size and weight limits for cabin bags and hold bags.
- Whether a hold bag is included in the fare or has to be added.
- The cost of adding bags online versus at the airport.
- Rules on liquids in hand luggage, which are set by the airport and can change.
- Any allowances for sports or mobility equipment.
It is almost always cheaper to add baggage when you book than at the airport.
Getting from the airport to your accommodation
Once you land, you have a few options for reaching your hotel or apartment. Taxis are widely available, and many visitors pre-book a transfer so the price and pick-up point are agreed in advance. Public buses serve much of the island, which can be a cheaper choice if you are travelling light and are not in a hurry. If you plan to explore beyond one resort, hiring a car can be convenient. Whichever you choose, check the current prices and operating hours from official or reputable sources, and allow for queues at busy arrival times.
Planning the rest of your trip
Malta is a small island, which makes it easy to see a lot in a short time. Many visitors combine beach time with history, and the capital, Valletta, and the neighbouring island of Gozo are popular additions. Check opening times and ferry schedules before you go, as these can change by season.
If you are comparing destinations, take a look at our city breaks guide for other short-haul options. If you are planning to hire a car, our car hire guide explains what to check, including that traffic in Malta drives on the left, as in the UK, though road conditions can be different.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct flight from London to Malta?
Yes. Several airlines have operated direct flights from London airports. Check schedules for your dates, as frequency varies.
What is the best month to fly to Malta?
It depends on what you want. Spring and autumn often balance weather and price, while summer is hottest and winter is cheapest and quieter.
Is Malta a good choice for a short break?
Yes, because the flight time is short enough for a long weekend and the island is compact. Allow for transfer time when planning a very short trip.
Do I need travel insurance for Malta?
It is strongly recommended, since a policy can help with medical costs, cancellations and delays. Read our travel insurance guide for what to look for, and check the details of any policy yourself.
Can I take a hold bag on a low-cost flight?
Usually only if you add it to your booking. Check the fare type, because the cheapest fares often include only a small cabin bag.
How early should I arrive at the airport?
Follow the advice from your airline and the airport, which typically recommends arriving a few hours before departure for international flights. Allow extra time at busy periods.
Final thoughts
To get the best flights to Malta, compare airlines and airports, search flexible dates and look at the total price including baggage. Spring and autumn offer a good mix of weather and price, while winter is usually cheapest. Check your passport and the official entry rules before you book, and take out insurance. With a little preparation, finding the right flight is straightforward.