Zeppelin’s Return: Malta Welcomes Back Airship Tourism on May 17, 2026

Imagine, if you will, the sun setting over the Grand Harbour, the ancient city of Valletta bathed in a warm, golden glow. Now, picture a silent, majestic airship, its silver hull glinting, gently descending into this historic scene. This is not a scene from a period drama, but a glimpse into Malta’s future, set for May 17, 2026.

From the Skies to the Sea

After a century-long absence, airships are set to return to Malta’s skies. The first commercial airship service since the 1920s will take to the air on May 17, 2026, operated by the innovative startup, Żepp. This isn’t just a flight; it’s a journey back in time, a chance to experience Malta from a perspective few have ever known.

Żepp, based at the historic Ta’ Qali National Airfield, has spent years restoring and adapting a vintage airship for modern tourism. The airship, christened ‘The Malta Queen’, will offer daily flights, weather permitting, from Ta’ Qali to the Grand Harbour, providing passengers with a unique view of the Maltese islands.

Reviving a Forgotten Era

Airships were once a common sight over Malta. During the early 20th century, they played a crucial role in connecting the islands to the outside world. The last airship flight from Malta was in 1931, a sad end to an era of silent, graceful travel.

Żepp’s founder, Dr. Joseph Mizzi, a local historian and aeronautics enthusiast, has long dreamt of reviving this forgotten era. “Airships are not just a mode of transport,” he says, “they’re a way to experience the world at a slower pace, to appreciate its beauty without the noise and haste of modern aviation.”

More Than Just a Flight

The Malta Queen will offer more than just a scenic flight. Passengers can expect a taste of history, with onboard guides sharing stories of Malta’s airship past. There will be themed flights too, from wine tasting tours to historical reenactments, all designed to immerse passengers in the experience.

But Żepp’s impact extends beyond tourism. The company is also investing in local education, partnering with the University of Malta to develop courses in airship engineering and design. This, Mizzi hopes, will inspire a new generation of Maltese innovators.

So, on May 17, 2026, as The Malta Queen takes to the skies, Malta will not only be welcoming back a piece of its history, but also embracing a future where innovation and heritage go hand in hand.