Qatar Airways will launch direct services to Valletta, Malta, starting June 4th, marking the airline’s first gateway to Malta and the latest addition to its rapidly-expanding European network.

The Valletta route will be served with an A320 aircraft, with daily services in summer and four-times-weekly flights in winter.

Valletta, a city with a rich historical and cultural past, offers much for visitors to explore, including some of Europe’s finest baroque architecture as well as many museums.

Visitors can admire the striking views of Malta’s Grand Harbour, often described as the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, or stroll the cobbled streets of the fortified capital, lined with honey-coloured limestone buildings, fine palaces, shops and cafés.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are tremendously excited to announce the launch of direct services to Malta, one of Europe’s architectural gems and a key new addition to our European network.

“This new direct route demonstrates our commitment to enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travelling to and from Europe, which we have enhanced during the past year with the launch of non-stop services to Prague, Kyiv, Skopje and many more.

“We look forward to introducing travellers from around the world to this captivating city.”

Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of more than 200 aircraft via its hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA) to more than 160 destinations worldwide.