In a touching hand-signed note to Air Malta Executive Chairman David Curmi after His recent visit to Malta, Pope Francis invoked “God’s abundant blessings of joy and peace” upon the leader and all those who assist in the airline’s works.

The letter was shared on social media by Mr Curmi, who wrote: “Very thankful to His Holiness the Pope for this hand-signed note thanking the management and staff of Air Malta for the generous hospitality shown on the occasion of his recent apostolic journey to Malta.”

The Pope travelled back to Rome from Malta using Air Malta and was joined by Mr Curmi. The flight was operated by Captain Peter Mifsud, Captain Frank Xerri and Captain Karen Sant. The Inflight Cabin Manager Louiselle Cauchi oversaw the cabins assisted by Evan Cutajar, Michelle Gatt, Mary Mifsud, Yanika Debono, Glorianne Mifsud and Yvette Mercieca.

In His letter, the Pope expressed gratitude to the management and staff of Malta’s flag airline for the “generous hospitality” they showed during his journey.

“The kindness, courtesy and attention shown on the return flight to Rome were deeply appreciated and made my journey all the more pleasant.”

The aircraft chosen for the flight, with registration 9H-NED, is the latest Airbus A320neo aircraft in the airline’s fleet.

The aircraft was specially configured for the occasion with three cabins: the Papal Suite at the front, a middle cabin for the Church Prelates and the other dignitaries accompanying the Pope, and a rear cabin for media representatives covering the Pope's visit.

The trip was the fourth time Air Malta has been honoured with the privilege of flying a Pope to Rome. Pope John Paul II travelled twice on the airline on the 27 May 1990 and again on the 9 May 2001. Pope Benedict XVI also flew on Air Malta on the 18 April 2010 after a two-day pastoral visit to the Islands.