Air Malta pays tribute to exemplary former chairman Albert Mizzi

11 September 2015

Date: Friday, 11 September 2015
Ref: 059-2015

Air Malta’s longest-standing chairman Albert Mizzi, who passed away yesterday, will remain a shining example to all those involved in Air Malta for his unwavering dedication, passion and commitment towards the national airline.

The iconic Maltese businessman spent almost two decades at the helm of Air Malta and was a key protagonist in the ambitious project to give Malta its own wings.

“Air Malta owes much to the perseverance, imagination and commitment of Mr Mizzi, who steered the airline just after inception until he saw it thriving. Though a lot has changed throughout the decades, not least in the global aviation industry, Mr Mizzi remains a shining example for all Air Malta employees, past and present, as he always placed the best interests of the airline before his own,” said Air Malta chairperson Maria Micallef.

“I will personally remember Mr Mizzi for his gentlemanly manner, leadership skills and natural vision. As soon as I was appointed to the chairmanship, he made it a point to meet me to explain the history behind Air Malta. He also asked me to make sure we bring the airline back to its glory days. It is an honour, responsibility and privilege to ensure his legacy of success is rekindled within the airline. Mr Mizzi will remain a celebrated figure in Air Malta’s young but rich history and he will be sorely missed,” Ms Micallef added. 

Mr Mizzi took over the national airline in its first year, 1973, until 1992, during which time Air Malta turned record profits and gained its reputation as a reliable and safe airline that means business. 

Key Milestones for Air Malta during Albert Mizzi’s chairmanship
  • 1st June 1973 – Albert Mizzi appointed Air Malta Chairman

 

  • March 1974 - First ever touchdown of an Air Malta aircraft on Maltese soil - March 1974

 

  • 31st March 1974 - Inauguration of Air Malta

 

  • 1st April 1974 – Air Malta operates first flight to London Heathrow

 

  • 30th March 1982 - Air Malta orders its first brand new Boeing aircraft

 

  • 30th March 1983 – Air Malta receives first Boeing 737-200 

  • 1st April 1983 - Air Malta celebrates its 10th Anniversary

 

  • October 1983 – Boeing awards Air Malta for world record in the highest utilisation of Boeing fleet 

  • 30th August 1990 –Delivery of First Airbus aircraft

 

  • 27th May 1990 - Pope John Paul on Air Malta

  • 3rd May 1992 – Albert Mizzi's 19 year Chairmanship at Air Malta ends

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