Malta’s Skies Buzz with History as Żepp Takes Flight

Imagine standing on the bustling St. George’s Square in Valletta, the sun warming your face, when suddenly, the hum of a familiar engine echoes through the air. You look up, and there it is – a gleaming silver Douglas DC-3, the very plane that once carried Winston Churchill across the English Channel. This isn’t a dream; it’s Żepp, Malta’s latest time-traveling attraction, taking to the skies on April 19, 2026.

Żepp, a brainchild of local entrepreneur and aviation enthusiast, Joseph Mizzi, is set to become Malta’s newest tourist magnet. After years of meticulous restoration, the vintage plane will finally take off from Malta International Airport, offering locals and tourists alike a chance to experience history firsthand.

“We’ve painstakingly restored Żepp to her former glory,” Mizzi says, his eyes gleaming with pride. “She’s not just a plane; she’s a living testament to Malta’s rich aviation history. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the joy of flying in a piece of history.”

Żepp’s inaugural flight isn’t just about reviving history; it’s also about boosting Malta’s tourism industry. The plane, which can carry up to 21 passengers, will offer scenic tours around the Maltese islands, giving tourists a unique perspective of the country’s rugged coastline and historic sites.

“Żepp is more than just an attraction; she’s an opportunity,” says Dr. Michael Frendo, tourism expert and former Minister of Tourism. “She’ll draw history buffs and aviation enthusiasts from all over the world, boosting our tourism industry and creating new job opportunities.”

Żepp’s restoration has also sparked interest in Malta’s aviation heritage. The Malta Aviation Museum in Ta’ Qali has seen a surge in visitors, with many expressing interest in Żepp’s story and Malta’s role in World War II aviation.

After April 19, Żepp will take to the skies every weekend, offering scheduled tours and chartered flights. Plans are also underway to create themed flights, such as a ‘Churchill’s Journey’ tour, retracing the former British Prime Minister’s flight across the English Channel.

“Żepp is just the beginning,” Mizzi says, his voice filled with excitement. “We’re already looking into restoring more vintage planes, each with its own unique story. Our skies are about to get a lot more interesting.”

So, mark your calendars, Malta. On April 19, 2026, history is taking flight. And you’re invited.