Malta International Airport (MLA) is located at Luqa, about 5 km south-west of Valletta, and is the only airport serving the Maltese islands. It has two asphalt concrete runways: 13/31, measuring 3,544 metres (11,627 feet), and 05/23, measuring 2,377 metres (7,799 feet). The airport sits at an elevation of 300 feet (91 metres) at coordinates 35.8575° N, 14.4775° E.
The long main runway accepts every category of aircraft, from light jets to long-range business jets and VIP airliners. Malta’s role as a centre for financial services, gaming, shipping and aviation, together with its leisure appeal, keeps private traffic steady through the year rather than only in summer. The Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta is also based at the airport. Valletta and the Grand Harbour are around 15 minutes by road, St Julian’s and Sliema around 20 to 30 minutes, and Mdina is close by inland. Gozo is reached by ferry, boat or helicopter from the main island. The Jet Collection arranges flights into Luqa with ground handling, customs and onward transfers to Valletta, Gozo or a yacht in one of the island’s marinas.
