Updated 1200
Seven airlines face consumer complaints over ‘undue’ hand luggage fees: The Association for Consumer Rights Malta, alongside BEUC and 15 consumer groups from 12 countries, has filed a complaint to the European Commission against seven airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizzair, for charging extra fees for standard-sized hand luggage. The complaint claims these charges breach EU air service regulations and mislead consumers about what’s included in their ticket price. The coalition is calling for an EU-wide investigation and harmonised rules to improve transparency and fairness. National actions, including fines in Spain and legal steps in Belgium and Portugal, underline the need for coordinated EU enforcement. A Dutch survey found 86% of consumers believe hand luggage should be included in the base fare.
White taxis propose relocating ride-hailing pick-up point 260m from airport terminal: The Malta Taxi Licensed Association (MTLA) has proposed that passengers using ride-hailing services at Malta International Airport walk 260 metres to a new pick-up zone near the Kirkop tunnels. MTLA argues this change would address unfair competition from Y-plate cabs, which don’t pay the €130,000 annual fee white taxis pay for a stand at arrivals. The proposal aims to ease airport congestion, enhance fairness, and improve the passenger experience. It includes creating up to 70 designated parking spots with EV charging, outside the current 250-metre no-waiting zone. MTLA also called for geofencing to monitor vehicle activity. Ride-hailing firms like Bolt expressed support for balanced, passenger-friendly solutions.
European professionals acknowledge progress in the construction sector, government says: Justice and Construction Reform Minister Jonathan Attard highlighted key reforms in Malta’s construction sector during the first edition of SHARE Malta, an international architecture and engineering forum. He outlined initiatives aimed at creating a safer, more professional, and sustainable industry, including mandatory licensing for contractors, the development of a National Building and Construction Code, and the launch of a Property Agency to regulate intermediaries. He also promoted the ‘Ixtri Proprjetà Sostenibbli’ scheme, which supports energy-efficient home purchases. Attard emphasised the sector’s alignment with Malta Vision 2050, prioritising public interest and environmental goals. Chamber President Andre Pizzuto praised the event as a platform to promote quality, sustainability, and collective progress in the built environment.
Morning Briefing
PN calls for recognition of Palestine
The Nationalist Party has called on the government to immediately recognise the State of Palestine, following Prime Minister Robert Abela’s hint at major diplomatic developments next month. In a statement, the PN condemned the situation in Gaza, describing the deaths of thousands of civilians — including children — and the denial of basic aid as a breach of international law and human rights. The PN reaffirmed its belief that lasting peace depends on mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine, urging the government to act without delay. (Times of Malta)
New large Burmarrad shopping mall approved by PA
The Planning Authority has approved the construction of a large four-storey shopping mall on a 5,123sq.m site currently occupied by Burmarrad Commercials’ car repair and rental depot. The project will feature a supermarket, retail outlets, catering establishments, office space, and four underground parking levels with space for 572 vehicles. The application was approved by a vote of eight to two, with St Paul’s Bay mayor Censu Galea and NGO representative Romano Cassar voting against. Galea opposed the project because it lies outside the development zone, although he acknowledged it complies with a 2020 planning policy that reclassified the area as commercial. (Maltatoday)
Criminal Court revokes Lilu King bail
The Criminal Court has revoked bail for Mohamed Ali Ahmed Elmushraty, also known as social media figure “Lilu King”, for the second time, overturning a Magistrates’ Court decision to release him. Madam Justice Natasha Galea Sciberras upheld an appeal by the Attorney General, who argued for the cancellation or tightening of Elmushraty’s bail, previously set at a €40,000 deposit and €200,000 personal guarantee. The court flagged a repeated disregard for bail conditions, noting the 32-year-old Libyan national had breached three separate sets since 2019. Most recently, he admitted to breaking two sets of conditions within three months of being granted bail in March 2024. (Newsbook)
