Malta’s Skies: Ready for Takeoff

Ever looked up at the Maltese night sky and wondered, “How high can I go?” Well, wonder no more. Malta’s skies are about to get a whole lot busier, and you could be part of it. Hot air ballooning, once a rare sight in our islands, is set to take off in a big way. So, buckle up, because we’re going on a journey to the clouds.

Hot air ballooning might seem like a modern thrill, but it’s actually one of the oldest forms of aviation. The first untethered flight was made in France in 1783, and it didn’t take long for the Maltese to catch on. In the late 19th century, balloons were a common sight in our skies, used for both recreation and military purposes. But over time, they disappeared, only to reappear sporadically in recent years.

Now, thanks to a new initiative by local adventure company Skybound Malta, hot air ballooning is set to become a regular feature of our skyline. And it’s not just about the thrill of the ride. It’s about seeing Malta from a whole new perspective.

Imagine floating silently over the rolling hills of Mdina, the ancient capital, its honey-coloured stone walls and narrow streets spread out below like a miniature medieval city. Picture the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean, the rugged coastline of Gozo, or the intricate patterns of farmland and vineyards in the Maltese countryside. This is Malta as you’ve never seen it before.

But it’s not just about the views. Hot air ballooning is a unique way to experience the elements. You’ll feel the wind, the sun, the gentle rise and fall of the balloon as it catches the breeze. You’ll see birds soaring alongside you, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the island’s famous migrating birds from above.

So, you’re ready to take to the skies? Here’s what you need to know. Flights with Skybound Malta will typically take off from a launch site in the north of Malta, near the limits of Bugibba. Flights last around an hour, but the whole experience, from preparation to landing, can take up to three hours.

Safety is, of course, paramount. Flights are weather-dependent, and pilots are trained and certified by the Civil Aviation Authority. You’ll be in safe hands, free to enjoy the ride and the view.

As for the cost, it’s not cheap. A standard flight for two people starts at around €350. But remember, you’re not just paying for a ride. You’re paying for a unique experience, a chance to see Malta in a whole new light.

As Malta’s hot air balloon scene takes off, there’s plenty to look forward to. Skybound Malta has plans to offer sunset flights, night flights, and even flights over Gozo. There’s talk of corporate events, weddings, and even ballooning schools for those who want to learn to pilot a balloon themselves.

But for now, let’s start with the basics. Let’s get up there, into the sky, and see our islands from a whole new perspective. Because sometimes, all you need to do is look up.

As one of Skybound Malta’s pilots, Mark Xuereb, puts it, “Malta is a small island with a big sky. It’s time we started filling it.”