Transport Malta

Transport Malta is the national authority responsible for the regulation and oversight of maritime, aviation, and land transport sectors in Malta. It provides services such as the registration of vessels and aircraft, licensing of seafarers and pilots, vehicle registration and driver licensing, and the enforcement of safety, security and environmental standards. The organisation serves both domestic and international stakeholders, including shipping companies, airlines, transport operators and the traveling public. Its operations are guided by international conventions and European Union directives that it transposes into national law.

Transport Malta’s distinguishing attribute lies in its dual role as a regulator and service provider, positioning it at the intersection of policy implementation and operational support for Malta’s transport industries. It maintains competencies in maritime safety, aviation security and land transport management, often representing Malta in forums such as the International Maritime Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization. The entity’s profile was highlighted in September 2020 when it suffered a cyberattack that disrupted its systems for five days before services were restored, although details of the attack’s nature and remediation were not publicly disclosed. This incident underscored the organisation’s reliance on digital infrastructure for delivering its core functions.

Structurally, Transport Malta operates as a public entity under the auspices of the Maltese government, reporting to the ministry responsible for transport, infrastructure and capital projects. It is not a privately owned company nor a subsidiary of another organisation, but rather a statutory body established to fulfil national transport regulatory mandates. Its governance framework ensures accountability to the Maltese parliament and adherence to public sector standards.