Why, exactly, has Malta also allowed American naval ships to come here?
The US Navy, as well as navies of many other nations, conducts ship visits to Malta and these have been a win-win situation for both countries. About 20 Navy ships per year call here as they transit the Mediterranean. Their crews value Malta as an ideal rest and relaxation location. Unlike cruise ship passengers who arrive and depart Malta the same day, Navy crew members spend several days on the islands, pumping an estimated Lm40 per person per day into the economy in Malta’s many restaurants, bars, tourist facilities and retail establishments. Visiting US sailors have also provided numerous hours of volunteer work at organisations such as the Richmond Foundation, St Joseph Home, Sacred Heart Home, and Dar Merhba Bik. 3. What airspace rights has the Malta government given the US, and how are they being used? Aircraft of many nations, including the United States, frequently transit the Mediterranean area. Overflight clearances from sovereign nations are required and quite routine – par
