Malta-based Universal Air is set to operate more routes in the coming year, after its debut intercontinental route to Tripoli Mitiga and flights to the new Salerno Pontecagnano airport.

Speaking to Aviation Week, CEO Simon Cook noted that the airline’s strategy focuses on routes that aren’t mainstream, namely like the one in Pecs, Hungary, where bigger operators cannot land due to a shorter runway.

“We’re targeting regions with limited connectivity to create a unique offering,” Mr Cook said.

While not disclosing the routes that the company is targeting next, he commented that Universal Air will add more ski destinations and offer short holiday trips for its upcoming winter season.

Furthemore, it aims to expand its fleet before next year’s summer season to support its growth.

Commenting on its position in the market, Mr Cook remarked that Universal air is positioning itself “between the low-cost and full-service model” and does not want to compete with Ryanair.

Looking ahead, Mr Cook noted that Univeral Air might expand to other bases across Europe, aside from Malta.

“If we can find the business case that justifies it, then we have the ability to continue purchasing the aircraft and open up bases around Europe,” he continued.

Universal Air launched its regional travel operations in March. The airline is equipped with a fleet of Dash 8 aircraft, which feature 78-seater cabins, leather seating in pairs and allow all passengers to benefit from an all-inclusive 15kg luggage allowance.

Prior to the launch, the airline had provided charter and cargo services for many years from its base at Malta International Airport.

Some of its summer schedule includes flights connecting Malta to Cagliario (Sardinia), Perugia (Italy), Nice (France), and Prague (Czechia), as well as a route connecting Cagliari and Prague.

Furthermore, it also operates routes between Malta and Athens and Corfu (Greece), the Balearic island of Ibiza (Spain), Palermo (Italy) and Pécs.