The emergence of an aviation hub : identifying the factors attracting companies to invest in the aviation services industry in Malta

Abstract

Current evidence and recent publications, coupled with amendments to existing legislation, show an increase in local and foreign investments within the aviation services industry in Malta. An aviation cluster, offering a wide array of heterogeneous services is emerging, mostly based in the Malta International Airport. This study discloses a timeline showing how such an exponential increase happened during recent years, gaining accelerated growth momentum and increasing the number of companies which chose Malta to be the host country of their main or satellite operational base. It also covers various industry and academic literature, including research publications and journals which are relevant to the aviation sector as a whole, with the aim to understand what are the major factors of consideration for both this industry and how investment is attracted. Specifics related to the Maltese islands are also included. Through a sequence of in-depth interviews, this study uncovers the major factors companies deem fertile for success, thereby making them willing to capitalize within this niche industry. It also compares the results with an international investment Index, where findings indicate that the index is proven otherwise. The business environment outshines the financial structure as the main criterion for investment decisions in the aviation services industry. This study also unveils the Government’s intention on the future of this industry and when taking all these aspects into consideration, findings indicate that this industry has now achieved a level where peaceful coexistence and synergies of scale between companies exist. Yet growth is on the doorstep, risking jeopardizing this harmony with perfect competition and homogeneity of services. The situation is now irreversible, given the country’s intent. Thus, given the factors alluring these companies to invest and stay in the industry vis-a-vie Malta, this study provides recommendations on key areas to be improved order for Malta to avoid losing the window of opportunity to become a center of excellence in Aviation services and compete with on par with other aviation hubs.