Airline Ryanair has confirmed a new route from Cardiff Airport to Malta.
The twice weekly scheduled service will launch in April 2019, as part of the airline’s summer schedule.
Debra Barber, Chief executive of Cardiff Airport, which is wholly-owned by the Welsh Government, said: "Our customers have been asking for the return of flights to Malta for some time, so we’re absolutely thrilled with today’s announcement that Ryanair will operate regular, low-cost services to this popular Mediterranean destination from early 2019.
“South Wales is home to a thriving Maltese community and so this service makes it easier to travel between both destinations, whilst also serving as another access point for European visitors seeking to explore Wales.”
Robin Kiely of Ryanair said: "Ryanair is pleased to announce a new Cardiff route to Malta, commencing in April 2019, which will operate twice weekly as part of our summer 2019 schedule.
"To celebrate we are extending our up to 20% off sale for booking until midnight September 11."
Moreover, Cardiff Airport has become the UK’s first regional airport to join UKinbound – the only trade association that represents the inbound tourism industry.
Currently 30% of Cardiff Airport customers are visitors to the country from destinations across Europe and further afield.
With more than 3.5 million international visitors travelling to Wales and the south west of England each year, a key objective of joining UKinbound will be to help increase the number of inbound passengers using the airport as the entry and/or departure point to the country.
Ms Barber said: "As a key gateway to the UK and the national airport for Wales, we are committed to strengthening our position within the industry and to promote all of the economic and employment benefits that come with more inbound tourism.
“Cardiff Airport is a convenient gateway for those visiting the UK for leisure, business, for further education or to visit family and friends.
“Joining UKinbound will connect us with key global tour operators who, when planning trips into the UK for their customers, should consider flights into/ out of Cardiff Airport as an easier, more convenient alternative to the bigger airports.
Visitors will have an opportunity to explore Wales and the south west of England – both of which have so much to offer.”
Mark McVay, chairman of UKinbound added, “One of our key priorities is to help support and promote tourism and new tourism product across the nations and regions of the UK.
"Following our successful Annual Convention in Cardiff earlier this year, we are delighted that Cardiff Airport have joined the Association which will help to foster greater collaboration with the travel trade in bringing new inbound business to the area.”