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Rent a car at Malta International Airport (MLA)
Malta International Airport (MLA), located near Luqa, is the island's only international airport and the main gateway for both leisure and business travelers. Picking your rental car at the airport gives you the flexibility to drive directly to your hotel, get settled in and continue with your journey. If you are attending a business meeting or an event, you can straight away reach your venue in your own car without depending on public transport or taxis.
VIP Cars allow you to compare deals from leading suppliers at Malta Airport and choose from a wide range of vehicles that fits best with your travel plans. From one-way trips and weekend getaways to family vacations and business travel, Malta Airport offers a convenient starting point for your journey. No matter what brings you to Malta, the right vehicle helps you make the most of every mile.
Where are the car rental desks located at Malta Airport?
Picking up your rental car at Malta International Airport (MLA) is quick and convenient. Major suppliers, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and several others, operate here. Follow the steps below to collect your vehicle after arriving at the airport.
Steps to collect your rental car:
- After arriving at Malta International Airport, follow the "Rental Cars" signs inside the terminal.
- Walk to the Park East Building, located at a short distance from the terminal.
- Proceed to Level 1, where the airport's car rental desks are located.
- Complete the required paperwork at your supplier's desk.
- Once the formalities are complete, you will be directed to the designated parking area to collect your vehicle.
- Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with the basic controls for easy driving and safety.
Where to return rental car at Malta Airport?
Returning your rental car at Malta Airport is equally simple. Follow the steps below to complete the return process.
Steps to return your rental car
- Follow the "Car Rental Return" signs as you approach the airport.
- Rental car returns are handled in the designated car rental return area at Park East, just near the terminal.
- Park the vehicle in the allocated return area or as instructed.
- Remove all personal belongings, lock the vehicle, and ensure you have complied with the agreed fuel policy.
- Hand the keys to your supplier's rental desk and complete any required return formalities.
- If you are returning the vehicle outside operating hours, follow your supplier's instructions mentioned in your booking voucher and use the designated key-drop facility, where available.
- Once the return process is complete, continue to the terminal to board your flight.
One-way car rentals from Malta Airport (MLA)
Many suppliers allow one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up your car at Malta Airport and return it at another convenient location across the island. This is a practical option if you are staying in a different town or planning to end your trip away from the airport. One-way fee is usually included in your rental price, depending on your supplier, vehicle category, and drop-off location.
Popular one-way drop-off locations include:
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Balzan Downtown
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Msida Downtown
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Valletta Downtown
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Sliema Downtown
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St. Julian's Downtown
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St. Paul's Bay Downtown
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Melliena Downtown
Malta Airport (MLA): Overview & passenger facilities
| Address: | Malta International Airport, Luqa LQA 4000, Malta |
|---|---|
| IATA Code: | MLA |
Malta International Airport (MLA) is the sole airport serving the Maltese Islands and is located in Luqa, around 8 km from Valletta. As Malta’s main gateway for international visitors, the airport connects the islands with destinations across Europe and beyond. In 2024, Malta International Airport handled around 8.96 million passenger movements and was connected to 109 destinations.
The airport continues to expand its connectivity. During the first half of 2025, SAS, Volotea and LOT Polish Airlines started operating at MLA, while Qatar Airways returned with year-round Doha services in July 2025. Italy, the UK, Poland, Germany and France were among the airport's busiest markets during this time.
For travelers arriving in Malta, the airport provides access to Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian's and other popular areas by taxi, airport shuttle and public transport. Car rental is another option for travelers planning to explore beyond the main towns and visit different parts of the island at their own pace.
Passenger facilities:
- Banking services & ATMs
- Wi-Fi & charging points
- Shopping stores
- Cafes & restaurants
- Chapel & prayer rooms
- VIP lounge
- Car rental services
VIP Cars’ tips for renting a car at Malta Airport
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Allow extra time for your return
If you are returning your rental car at the airport, arrive well in advance. During the summer months and holiday periods, the return area and terminal can be busier than usual, so giving yourself extra time helps avoid last-minute stress.
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Choose a luxury car for a more comfortable drive
If you are looking for a more comfortable and stylish way to explore Malta, a luxury car rental can add an extra touch to your trip. It is a good option for business travelers, special occasions, or anyone who prefers a more elevated driving experience while visiting places such as Valletta, Golden Bay, and Dingli Cliffs.
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Keep your supplier informed about flight delays
If your flight is delayed, contact the rental supplier as soon as possible and provide your updated arrival time. This is important if you are arriving close to or after the branch’s scheduled closing time and may help keep your booking from being treated as a 'no-show'.
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Drive on the left from the moment you leave the airport
Traffic in Malta drives on the left-hand side of the road. If you are used to driving on the right, take a few moments to adjust after leaving the airport, especially at roundabouts and junctions.
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Know your supplier's fuel policy before returning
Before driving away from the airport, cross-check your booking to see whether it was a full-to-full or another fuel policy. Refuelling before returning the vehicle, where required, can help you avoid additional charges.
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No toll roads, but watch for speed limits
Malta has no toll roads, making it easy to explore the island without worrying about toll payments. However, always follow the posted speed limits, which vary between urban areas and open roads.
