Malta International Airport (MLA) — Live Arrivals
Below you will find the live arrivals board for Malta International Airport (MLA). Real-time information on all incoming flights, including flight status, scheduled arrival times, origins, terminals, and baggage claim belts. The board is updated every minute. Malta International Airport handles approximately 8.96 million passengers annually.
Terminal Information at Malta International Airport
Malta International Airport has 1 passenger terminal.
Incoming international flights usually arrive at the main terminal. Low-cost carriers may use a different terminal. Check the live arrivals board above to confirm your arrival terminal before landing.
Malta International Airport operates a single, modern passenger terminal that handles all international and domestic flights. The terminal was extensively renovated in 2009 and expanded in 2018, transforming it into a modern, efficient facility.
The terminal features 30 check-in desks, 8 gates (including 4 with jet bridges), and a large duty-free area. It is designed for efficient passenger flow, with check-in counters and security screening located on the ground floor and the departures area on the upper level. The terminal offers a range of passenger amenities including duty-free shops, cafes and restaurants, a business lounge (the La Valette Club), free Wi-Fi, and a tourist information desk.
The airport also has a dedicated cargo terminal with a capacity of 20,000 tonnes per year, serving as a key logistics hub for Malta and the central Mediterranean. A separate general aviation facility is located on the eastern side of the airport.
The airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The minimum connection time at MLA is 30–45 minutes for most transfers, as all gates are within the same terminal building.
Read the full terminal guide for MLA →
Baggage Claim
After landing, follow the Arrivals signs to passport control (for international flights) and then to the baggage claim area. Baggage belts are displayed on screens inside the terminal and on the live arrivals board above.
- Baggage is usually delivered within 20–40 minutes after landing.
- Lost or delayed baggage? Contact your airline's baggage services desk in the Arrivals hall.
- Most airports have luggage storage and lost & found offices near the Arrivals exit.
Getting from MLA to the City
Malta International Airport is well connected to Valletta, the capital, and the rest of Malta through several transport options. The airport is located about 5 km southwest of Valletta in the town of Luqa.
Express Bus (X1–X7)
The airport is served by seven express bus lines (X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7), connecting the terminal directly to key destinations across Malta and Gozo. Buses run every 15–60 minutes from early morning to late evening. The journey to Valletta takes about 20–25 minutes. A single ticket costs €2.00 in summer and €1.50 in winter, valid for two hours across the public transport network. A 7-day unlimited travel card costs €21. Tickets can be purchased from the driver, at ticket machines, or via the Tallinja app.
Bus Routes 117–120
Local bus routes 117, 118, 119, and 120 connect the airport to nearby towns and villages. These are useful for travellers staying outside the main tourist areas.
Taxi
Official white taxis are available 24/7 outside the Arrivals hall. Fares are fixed and based on the destination: to Valletta, approximately €18–20; to Sliema or St Julian’s, €20–25; to the ferry terminal, €22. There is a night surcharge of approximately 20% between 23:00 and 06:00. Only official white taxis should be used.
Ride-hailing
Bolt and Uber operate at MLA. Pick-up zones are clearly marked outside the terminal. Prices are usually slightly cheaper than official taxis, with fares to Valletta around €15–20.
Private Transfer
Book a driver in advance for a stress-free arrival. Prices start from €25 for a sedan, including meet & greet in the arrivals hall. Popular with families and business travellers.
Car Rental
Major international and local car rental companies operate at MLA, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, Sixt, and Enterprise. Pickup counters are located in the Arrivals hall of the terminal. Note that driving in Malta is on the left side of the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does baggage claim take at MLA?
Baggage is usually delivered within 20–40 minutes after landing. Belt numbers are shown on screens inside the terminal and on the live arrivals board above.
Which terminal will my flight arrive at MLA?
Most international flights arrive at the main terminal. Low-cost carriers may use a different terminal. Check the live arrivals board above for real-time terminal information.
What is the fastest way to get from MLA to the city center?
Train is usually the fastest option, followed by taxi or private transfer. See the transportation section above for prices and travel times.
What should I do if my baggage is lost or delayed at MLA?
Report the issue at your airline's baggage services desk in the Arrivals hall before leaving the airport. You will receive a reference number to track your bag.