Kuala Lumpur, referred to by locals simply as “KL”, is the federal capital of Malaysia. This sprawling metropolis is the country’s most populous city, and main cultural center. Read on to learn more about one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic destinations.

From Muddy River to Metro Area

The name Kuala Lumpur literally means “muddy river confluence” in Malay. In just 150 years, the city has grown from a sleepy Chinese tin-mining village, to a bustling urban area with more than seven million inhabitants. A true cultural melting pot, the city offers some of the world’s most affordable 5-star hotels, great shopping opportunities, and even better food. In addition, the surrounding area features some of nature’s greatest wonders, which can be reached in around an hour by car.

KL is a sprawling city, with several distinct districts to explore.

Popular Attractions in KL

The old city center is the traditional core of Kuala Lumpur, where the former colonial administrative center can be found with Merdeka Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the Royal Selangor Club. This area also includes the city’s old Chinese commercial center, known today as Chinatown.

The iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, a historical structure from Malaysia’s colonial times.

The Golden Triangle is KL’s main Central Business District. Located to the northeast of the old city center, many of the city’s popular shopping malls and five-star hotels can be found here. Glittering skyscrapers light up the night sky, including the iconic Petronas Towers. These architectural wonders dominate the skyline, and are the tallest twin towers in the world.

The iconic Petronas Towers dominate the skyline of Kuala Lumpur’s modern CBD.

Located south of the city center, the Brickfields area is known as KL’s “Little India”. The area is filled with ethnic clothing shops and popular banana leaf restaurants, reflecting the cultural influence of the city’s sizeable Tamil Indian population.

Brickfields, known as “Little India”, is influenced by the city’s sizeable Tamil population.

Bangsar is a highly popular restaurant and nightlife district, while Mid Valley is one of the city’s best known shopping destinations, and home to the enormous Mid Valley Megamall.

The affluent Bangsar district is a home to countless restaurants and bars, and is one of KL’s hotspots for nightlife.

Visitors seeking a more authentic Malaysian experience can head to Kampong Bharu, one of the last surviving old-style villages in KL. Here, the traditional Malay lifestyle is preserved together with many beautiful Kampung houses.

Kampong Bharu is an old-style Malaysian village, where many traditional Kampung houses can still be seen.

Nature lovers can explore a variety of stunning natural attractions around the northern outskirts of the city. These include the Batu Caves, the National Zoo and the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia.

The famous Batu Caves feature a series of Hindu temples and monuments set on a limestone hill.

Cuisine

KL is a great place for an introduction to the delights of Malaysian food. Most people speak English, and can easily explain to visitors what is in each dish.

Delicious food is available on practically every street corner; simply head to the ubiquitous roadside stalls or kedai kopi shops. These operate somewhat like a food court, with many vendors in the same place selling a wide variety of dishes. Also extremely common are kedai mamak (curry houses). One famous collection of streetside mamak stalls is at Jalan Doraisamy, near the Heritage Row (Tuanku Abdul Rahman). Along with curries, here you can also try roti canai. Served with dhal and curry sauce, this filling snack is half chapati, half pancake and wholly delicious.

Nasi Lemak, one of the most iconic dishes in Malaysian cuisine, served on the traditional banana leaf.

Traditional Malay food can be found in Jalan Masjid India and Kampung Baru in the Tuanku Abdul Rahman district. Chinatown is unsurprisingly the best place to go for Chinese (especially Cantonese) food, although a full range of Chinese cuisine can be found all over Kuala Lumpur. Lebuh Ampang in the city center and Brickfields are the destinations of choice for Indian food, whilst Bangsar is home to many high-end restaurants serving Western-style dishes. Several Arab and Middle Eastern-flavored restaurants have also sprung up in recent years in Bukit Bintang, Cyberjaya and Damai. Craving your favorite Korean dishes? Head to Ampang Jaya.

Climate

KL enjoys a year-round tropical climate and is usually warm and sunny, with abundant rainfall. The wettest time of year is in November (with an average of 278mm rainfall). June tends to be the driest month, however still sees around 130mm of rain. Flooding is a regular occurrence in the city when there is a heavy downpour, especially around the city center area. Temperatures remain reasonably constant throughout the year, hovering between highs of 31–33°C and lows of 22–23°C.

Kuala Lumpur is a city of contrasts, offering visitors a fascinating blend of the ancient and ultra-modern.

KL was the world’s seventh most visited city in 2016, with more than 12 million making a trip to the Malaysian capital. This vibrant destination continues to enchant travelers with its harmonious mix of cultures, irresistible cuisine and renowned hospitality.

Flying to Kuala Lumpur

Landing permits are required for all operations to Malaysia. Private non-revenue permits generally take around three business days to process. However charter (non-scheduled commercial) permits usually require a minimum of two to four weeks lead time, as all charter and scheduled airline permit applications are vetted by the Transport Ministry.

Visa requirements for Malaysia vary depending upon the nationalities of passengers and crew. If passengers are carrying a large amount of taxable goods, these should be declared under a customs ATA carnet. No taxes will be due on these items if the passenger brings them when they exit the country..

Airport Options

There are three airports in Kuala Lumpur, however only two of these are available to General Aviation (GA) operations. These are Kuala Lumpur International Airport (IATA: KUL, ICAO: WMKK) and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (IATA: SZB, ICAO: WMSA).

Kuala Lumpur International Airport

WMKK is Kuala Lumpur’s main international airport. Primarily set up for scheduled commercial flights, it is currently ranked as the world’s 24^th busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic, and served a total of 52,640,043 travelers in 2016. Located to the south of the city, WMKK is approximately 50 minutes’ drive (68km) from the city center and is linked by a high-quality expressway.

WMKK is a 24-hour Airport of Entry (AoE), and is not subject to any curfews or noise restrictions. Airport slots are mandatory, and should be requested along with the landing permit. Once the landing permit has been approved, the airport slots are also confirmed. There are plenty of aircraft parking spaces available, and long-term parking can usually be secured without any issues.

Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport

Often known as Subang Airport or Subang Skypark, WMSA is located on the west of the city, around 35 minutes’ drive (32km) from central Kuala Lumpur. Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah is geared towards GA activity, and close to the downtown area.

WMSA functions as an Airport of Entry (AoE) 24 hours a day, and does not have any noise restrictions. Airport slots are not required. Aircraft parking spaces are limited, and should be requested well in advance. Operators should always carry their own tow bar onboard. The majority of aircraft will be parked at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), however larger jets are usually assigned remote parking.

Book Your Trip with Jetex

Planning to visit Kuala Lumpur? Arrange your trip with Jetex!

We offer you a full range of executive aviation services, including international trip planning, ground handling, worldwide fuel uplifts and bespoke concierge services. Our dedicated and highly experienced operations teams are on standby 24/7, ready to assist with every aspect of your journey.

For further information about how you can benefit from our services, please contact our team on +971 4 212 4000, or email info@jetex.com.

Romania is situated on the shores of the Black Sea, in the north of the Balkan Peninsula. The country enjoys both great natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. In the first of a three part series exploring this fascinating destination, we take a look at some of the most popular attractions in the bustling capital city of Bucharest.

Bucharest: Eastern Europe’s “Little Paris”

Bucharest is Romania’s capital, and the largest city in the country. The city became known as “Little Paris” during the period between the two World Wars, on account of its elegant architecture and the sophistication of its elite. There is much to explore and, as with many cities, a walking tour is often the best way to become acquainted with the surroundings.

A good place to start is Calea Victoriei or “Victory Avenue”, a fashionable thoroughfare where you can view the Cantacuzino Palace and Revolution Square. The French Baroque/Art Nouveau-style Cantacuzino Palace was built in 1902, and today houses a museum dedicated to renowned Romanian composer George Enescu. Known as Piața Palatului (Palace Square) until 1989, Revolution Square was renamed following the 1989 Romanian Revolution, which saw the overthrow of the Ceausescu regime.

Revolution Square, located on Calea Victoriei in central Bucharest.

Old Meets New

Throughout Bucharest, the modern-day architecture stands in stark contrast to older historic buildings, making it a fabulous example of old meets new. In the center of the city you can find the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall which has become one of the city’s most iconic sights.

Designed by the French architect Albert Galleron, this neoclassical landmark was inaugurated in 1888. The ground floor hosts an ornate conference hall, whilst the main auditorium seats more than 600 people. In front of the building you can find a small park, which contains a statue of the famous Romanian poet Mihai Eminescu.

The Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall and famous landmark in Bucharest.

The World’s Biggest Parliament Building

Located on Dealul Arsenalului in central Bucharest, the Palace of Parliament is the largest administrative building in the world, covering an area of 365,000m². Built in the 1980s on the orders of former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, this imposing structure features more than three thousand rooms, all fashioned from the finest Romanian marble.

In addition to huge quantities of marble, other materials used in its construction included 3,500 tons of crystal (480 chandeliers and 1,409 ceiling lights were manufactured), 700,000 tons of bronze and steel, 900,000 m³ of wood (including walnut, oak, sweet cherry and elm), and  200,000 m² of woolen carpeting. All of these combined make it officially the world’s heaviest building, weighing in at around 4,517,822 tons.

The imposing Palace of Parliament building in Bucharest holds the record for the world’s heaviest building.

Experience Living History

If you are seeking an authentic glimpse into Romanian history you can visit the Old Town (Lipscani), home to a variety of attractive mid-19^th century buildings. From the Middle Ages to the early 19^th century, this was the most important commercial area of the city. Originally named after the German city of Leipzig (Lipsca in 17^th century Romanian), the word lipscan meant “trader who brought his wares from Western Europe” in Romanian.

A must-visit within the Lipscani district are the ruins of the Princely Court of Targoviste – otherwise known as the first residence of Vlad Tepes, aka Count Dracula. Churches, restaurants and traditional taverns line the narrow, cobblestoned streets, bringing centuries of history to life before your eyes. Today, much of the district has been transformed into a pedestrian zone, and the area has become a popular spot for nightlife.

Ruins at the Princely Court of Targoviste, once home to the infamous Vlad the Impaler.

Enjoy a Stroll in the Park

On the north side of the city, nature lovers can visit the beautiful Herastrau Park and the nearby Arcul de Triumf  or “Arch of Triumph” – the monument bears a striking resemblance to the more famous one found in Paris. The original arch was built in honor of Romanian independence in 1878. Military parades are held annually beneath the arch on the 1^st December, marking Romania’s main national holiday known as “Great Union Day”.

No trip to Bucharest is complete without a visit to the Cismigiu Gardens. Built in 1847, this is the oldest and largest park in the city. It is also home to the Rondul Român (“Romanian Round”), a circular alley which contains stone busts of twelve important Romanian writers. Other pleasant outdoor areas to visit include the beautiful Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza, a peaceful oasis of green amid the hustle and bustle of the city, and the enchanting Bucharest Botanical Gardens.

The attractive Cismigiu Gardens is the oldest and largest park in the city.

Culture Aficionado’s Delight

History buffs will be in their element with all the museums, palaces and grand buildings that Bucharest has to offer. One of the most famous for sightseers is the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum. Located in Herăstrău Park, this open-air ethnographic museum showcases traditional Romanian village life. Visit the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant to view a collection of textiles, icons, ceramics and other relics of day-to-day life.

The Cotroceni Palace (Palatul Cotroceni) is famous as the official residence of the President of Romania. In addition, the palace houses the National Cotroceni Museum, an extensive collection of traditional Romanian arts and crafts.

Bucharest is home to many ancient churches and monasteries, including the Stavropoleos Church and Kretzulescu Church, both Eastern Orthodox monasteries built in the early 1700s. The Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral was completed in 1658, and features an elegant facade in the Brâncovenesc style. This building witnessed a historical moment in 1862, when Romanian Prime Minister Barbu Catargiu was assassinated as his carriage passed in front of the cathedral. The Antim Monastery is a beautiful walled complex built in 1715 by the metropolitan bishop Antim Ivireanu. The monastery still functions today, and also hosts a museum featuring historical religious artefacts.

Antim Monastery, one of the many historic religious structures which can be found in Bucharest.

Take a Spin Through Automotive History

Our tour of Bucharest concludes with a more up-to-date attraction, the Tiriac Collection. A hit among vintage car enthusiasts, this museum dedicated to automobiles includes over 150 historical vehicles manufactured since 1899. The cars on display all belong to the private collection of Ion Tiriac, a Romanian businessman and former professional tennis player. It is the only collection in the world to feature all six models of Rolls Royce Phantoms produced between 1927 and 1972.

In addition to the older models, the museum showcases several modern performance cars. A full list of vehicles currently on display can be found on the museum’s official website.

The Tiriac Collection gathers vintage motorcars from the private collection of Ion Tiriac, a businessman and former Tennis champion.

Further Reading

In the next part of our trip around Romania, we will take a look at the historical region of Transylvania. A destination long associated with spooky myths and legends, this area is perhaps not as scary as you might believe. Stay tuned to find out why!

Romania in Focus Part Two: Transylvania
Romania in Focus Part Three: Other Popular Destinations

Arrange Your Trip to Romania with Jetex

Planning a vacation to this charming destination? Arrange your trip with Jetex!

We deliver world-class trip planning services, including permit arrangements, ground handling, fuel uplifts and bespoke concierge services. Our dedicated operations team is on standby 24/7 to look after all the technical details of your journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip.

To find out more about our services, please contact our team on +971 4 212 4000 or email info@jetex.com.

Stockholm is the capital of Sweden, and the most populous city in the Nordic region. Home to approximately 1.5 million people, the city is built across an extensive archipelago in the Baltic Sea. Read on to learn more about flying to this fascinating destination.

The Venice of Scandinavia

There is evidence that the Stockholm area has been settled as far back as the Stone Age. Founded as a city in 1252 by statesman Birger Jarl, today it functions as the cultural, political and economic center of Sweden.

The city is spread across 14 islands, with more than 50 bridges ensuring it remains a well-connected and essentially compact destination. Each neighborhood offers its own distinct character, however due to their close proximity you can easily spend time in several areas. Visitors can enjoy trend-setting design, innovative cuisine, awe-inspiring museums, fabulous shopping and pleasant parks, all wrapped in a charming Scandinavian atmosphere..

An Enchanting Blend of the Ancient and Modern

Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic old town as seen from the air.

The old town, Gamla Stan, is one of Europe’s most arresting historic locations. With its Baroque-style palaces and narrow cobblestone streets, the area seems to have come straight from the pages of a storybook. Only a few meters from this unique time capsule lies the thriving and modern city center. Stockholm is a major business hub and economic powerhouse, accounting for more than a third of Sweden’s GDP. A recent Eurostat report places it in the top ten wealthiest regions in Europe.

Ferries and sightseeing boats shuttle passengers between the islands, providing a pleasant and convenient means of transport for tourists and locals alike. Another great way to explore the city is the Stockholm metro. Opened in 1950, it is famous worldwide for the unique decoration of its stations, and has been called the “longest art gallery in the world”.

A boat tour offers a fantastic way to take in the city’s many sights.

Experience Living Tradition at Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Stockholm is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Birka, Drottningholm or the Woodland Cemetery, and you will feel as though you have traveled back in time to key periods which defined Sweden’s history.

Birka is a Viking outpost and archeological site, where you can come face to face with the legendary Nordic sea farers. A dig site and museum are located along a scenic boat ride on the sparkling waters of Lake Mälaren.

Drottningholm Palace is one of Stockholm’s most popular tourist attractions. Home to the Royal family since 1662, the palace includes a 300 year-old theater, the famous Chinese Pavilion and a magnificent park.

Visit Drottningholm Palace, home to the Swedish Royal family since 1662.

The Woodland Cemetery offers a unique location for a quiet walk, and is used on a daily basis by many Stockholmers. The serene surroundings and beautiful architecture by Gunnar Asplund set a contemplative tone, and offer an oasis of calm just a short metro ride away from the hustle and bustle of the city..

Education and Culture

Some of Europe’s top ranking universities can be found in Stockholm, including the Stockholm School of Economics, the Karolinska Institute and the Royal Institute of Technology. Culture aficionados will appreciate the abundance of museums and art galleries on offer. These include the Vasa Museum One, the most visited non-art museum in the whole of Scandinavia.

The Royal Institute of Technology is one of northern mainland Europe’s foremost institutions for engineering and technology.

The Swedish capital also plays host to a number of important global events, including the annual Nobel Prize ceremonies which are held at the Stockholm Concert Hall.

The city is well-known for its vibrant nightlife. The streets come alive seven days a week with the buzz of restaurants, trendy bars and stylish clubs. This is especially true during the summer months, when Sweden enjoys extended daylight hours (the sun does not go down until well after 10:00pm).

Winter Wonderland

There is plenty to see and do during winter as well, despite the chilly weather.  One of the city’s enduringly popular tourist attractions is Skansen’s Christmas market. Dating back to 1903, it is held on weekends throughout December until Christmas Eve. Here, visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere and browse a selection of Swedish craft products, including traditional Christmas ornaments made of straw, handmade candles, sweets and seasonal fare such as smoked sausage, eel, pepparkakor (gingersnaps), glögg (local mulled wine) and saffron buns.

Experience traditional Swedish festivities at a Stockholm Christmas Market.

Regardless of the time of year, Stockholm is a fascinating destination. Visitors are guaranteed a memorable weekend in one of Scandinavia’s most beautiful cities.

Flying to Stockholm

Landing permits and prior permission required (PPR) are not necessary for private non-revenue or charter (non-scheduled commercial) operations to Sweden.

Sweden is a member of the European Union (EU). Visas may be required for passengers and crew flying to Stockholm, depending upon the nationalities on board. Travel within the EU and Schengen countries does not require customs and immigration clearance, however this is mandatory for flights arriving from other regions.

Operators have a choice of two main airports when flying to Stockholm. Arlanda Airport (IATA: ARN, ICAO: ESSA) is the main commercial airport, and is located around 40km north of the city center. Bromma Airport (IATA: BMA, ICAO: ESSB) is approximately 10km west of central Stockholm. Both are available to General Aviation (GA) traffic, however Bromma has more restrictions in place. As a result, Arlanda is usually the preferred option for flying to Stockholm.

Arlanda Airport

ESSA is a 24-hour Airport of Entry (AoE), and has no noise or maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) restrictions. A full range of ground handling services are available, as well as a comfortable VIP lounge. Passengers and crew clear customs and immigration through the main terminal, however a dedicated fast-track lane can be arranged in advance (subject to additional fees). Scheduled commercial operations occasionally impact GA operations at ESSA, with delays in fuel uplifts being the main cause for concern. Peak times for commercial traffic are usually early morning and afternoon. Aircraft slots are required, and are subject to deviations of +/-15 minutes. Slots should be requested a few days in advance of arrival, with a minimum lead time of 24 hours. Aircraft parking is plentiful, and there are no restrictions on long-term parking. Hangarage is also available (subject to availability).

Bromma Airport

Operating hours at ESSB are 07:00 – 22:00 local time (Monday – Friday), 09:00 – 17:00 (Saturday), and 12:00 – 22:00 (Sunday). A minimum of four hours’ notice is required for customs and immigration arrangements. An 89dB noise restriction applies for all aircraft movements. Airport authorities may request a noise certificate prior to arrival if an aircraft is deemed likely to exceed this figure. Bromma Airport also requires the aircraft weight to be low enough that Vref will be 120kts or under, restricting the use of some larger aircraft. There are no limitations on aircraft parking, and a dedicated GA ramp area is available. If this is full, operators can make use of an additional remote parking area.

Enjoy VAT Exempt Fueling with Jetex

VAT is applicable on fuel for private and domestic flights in Sweden. Thanks to our VAT exemption program, you can save 20% from your bill at point of sale next time you are flying to Stockholm. Contact vat@jetex.com  today to enroll and start enjoying the benefits.

Arrange Your Next Trip with Jetex

Planning a trip to Stockholm? Jetex offers you a full range of trip support services, including international flight planning, ground handling, fuel uplifts and bespoke concierge services. Our dedicated operations teams are on standby 24/7 to assist with every aspect of your journey.

To learn more about how you can benefit from our services, please contact our team on +971 4 212 4000 or email info@jetex.com.

Malta is a small island located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea. Home to around 420,000 people, the country is famous for its sun, sea, history and culture. In recent years, Malta has also developed a reputation as a vibrant, open economy within the European Union, and gained considerable ground in establishing itself as an important financial center.

The island’s pleasant climate and favorable financial regulations have been attracting increasing numbers of foreign high-net-worth individuals to take up residence there. This has led to an increase in general aviation activity, and in the number of locally registered aircraft. Here we take a look at some of the benefits for owners and operators registering their aircraft in Malta.

Malta: A Major Regional Hub

Malta boasts the largest shipping register in Europe, and has a long history as a significant maritime hub in the Mediterranean. Today, aviation is just as important for the island’s economy as the nautical sector. Private and corporate aircraft owners are touching down in Malta in ever-increasing numbers, with aviation management companies and service providers ramping up operations to cater to the demand. Due to the island nation’s relatively small size, the airport is never further than thirty minutes away.

Malta is well on its way to becoming a serious competitor in Europe’s aircraft registration and management industry. In 2010, the Maltese government launched the Aircraft Registration Act, intended to encourage development of the aviation industry. Since then, the sector has blossomed. As of June 2017, more than 250 aircraft are registered in Malta, up from just 80 at the end of 2010.

What Facilities Are Available on the Island?

In 2012, the government inaugurated the Safi Aviation Park, a €17 million project designed to pave the way for the aerospace industry to continue flourishing. This 200,000m² facility provides the infrastructure to support the creation of an aviation cluster, and offers a number of complementary services in one convenient location. These include maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of aircraft, hangarage, and spray painting. All of this is interwoven with cutting-edge research and development facilities to create a central aviation hub which is unrivaled in the region.

Safi Aviation Park provides state-of-the-art facilities designed to help develop the aviation industry in Malta.

There are several flight schools in Malta, together with aviation industry training organizations delivering a wide variety of courses. A number of Maltese pilots today head the training departments of the world’s leading airlines, and have played a significant role in the introduction of iconic aircraft such as the Airbus 380 into the fleets of major airlines.

What Are the Benefits of the Maltese Tax System?

One aspect of Malta’s commitment to facilitate the aviation business has been to remove undue tax burdens. No import duty is chargeable when bringing civil aircraft into Malta. In addition, any income derived from the ownership, lease or operation of aircraft engaged in the international transport of passengers or goods is deemed to arise outside Malta.

VAT is applicable as per EU law in respect of importations, intra-community acquisitions, and supply of aircraft. However, managed aircraft operated on an Air Operators Certificate (AOC) are not subject to VAT, even when used by their owners. All aircraft operated on an AOC are VAT exempt, irrespective of the number of flights and whether these are operated on the owner’s behalf or for third parties.

Any business involved in the repair, overhaul or maintenance of aircraft may benefit from investment tax credits, which can be offset against the tax due on its chargeable income. Malta also has an extensive double taxation treaty network aimed at minimizing tax liability on international transactions, which covers more than one hundred countries. Click here to view a full list of participating nations.

Why Register an Aircraft in Malta?

Thanks to the efforts of the government, Malta is considered a highly favorable territory in which to register an aircraft. Some of the advantages include:

• A cohesive set of national laws on aircraft registration and security.
• An all-inclusive National Aircraft Register (as opposed to a separate aircraft and mortgage register), which integrates the aircraft’s ownership and technical information along with details of third party rights over the aircraft and/or its engines.
• Narrowing of nationality and form requirements, and extension of ownership of Maltese aircraft (under specified circumstances) to nationals of countries other than EU Member States, EEA States or Switzerland.
• Option to have an aircraft registered not only by the respective owner, but also by operators under a temporary title.
• Introduction of fractional ownership of an aircraft, allowing more than one person to have a vested interest in an aircraft.
• Enhanced rights of creditors, including the possibility of registering an irrevocable power of attorney for de-registration and export of the aircraft.
• Extensive protection and increased authority to mortgagees in relation to the cancellation of an aircraft from the register.

An aircraft may be registered in Malta by any of the following:

• The owner of an aircraft who operates the said aircraft.
• The owner of an aircraft which is under construction or temporarily not being operated.
• The operator of an aircraft under a temporary title.
• The buyer of an aircraft under a conditional sale or title reservation agreement, who is thereby authorized to operate the aircraft.

Conclusion: A Great Choice for Owners and Operators

Operators who chose to register their aircraft in Malta benefit from the available tax incentives and positive legislation, thanks to the Maltese authority’s focus on client service rather than unnecessary bureaucracy. Malta’s cosmopolitan business life and strong economic activity have also helped attract several big names in the aviation industry to the island.

Business aviation in Malta has seen steady growth in recent years, with passenger traffic at Malta International Airport increasing by 10% in 2016. Local Part-145 maintenance organizations have also contributed to the growth of business aviation on the island, through their reliable provision of line and base maintenance for a large selection of aircraft.

As a full Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) member state, Malta has earned a reputation for maintaining high regulatory standards in aviation. These credentials help to ensure that Malta’s flag is not just one of convenience, but one of confidence, which is respected across the globe.

Ask most people for their list of dream holiday destinations, and they would likely include trips to the world’s most popular historical/cultural, leisure and shopping destinations. However, a special niche has developed in the tourism industry that focuses less on the commercial side of travel, and more on educating travelers on the importance of maintaining a balanced relationship with nature. The trend towards Ecotourism is born of an urgent need for environmental awareness and ecological conservation.

Ecotourism: Travel in Harmony with Nature

Ecotourism programs are usually promoted or run by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and/or local interest groups, conservationists and environmentalists. Nature trips and wildlife safaris often fall under the ecotourism category. While such trips offer an up close and personal glimpse of nature, their goal is ultimately to inform and challenge participants into doing something to help the environmental cause. This may be accomplished by means of monetary support, social action, or a simple change in mindset and lifestyle.

Ecotourists wish to learn about more than just the history and culture of a destination. They will go beyond enjoying the typical sights, traveling deeper into remote areas to learn about rare or endangered plant and animal species and other aspects of the natural environment. Here we will look at five of the most popular destinations for ecotourism.

Kenya and Tanzania

The African nations of Kenya and Tanzania offer extensive wildlife safari opportunities, as well as mountain climbing expeditions to the stunning peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. An eco-trip to these destinations guarantees a fascinating and memorable experience like no other.

The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania’s highest peak which stands almost 6,000 meters above sea level.

Popular attractions in Kenya include the Masai Mara Game Reserve, Aberdares National Park, Amboseli National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park.

Masai Mara Game Reserve is famous worldwide for its exceptional population of Masai lions, African leopards and Tanzanian cheetahs. Aberdare National Park covers a 766 km² stretch of the Aberdare Mountain Range. The park contains a wide variety of landscapes, from mountain peaks rising 4,300m above sea level, to deep valleys intersected by rivers and waterfalls. Moorland, bamboo forests and rainforests can be found at lower altitudes.

Amboseli National Park offers the best opportunity to get close to elephants in their natural habitat.

Amboseli National Park is famous for being the best place in Africa to get close to free-ranging elephants, and offers spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Travelers also have a unique opportunity to mingle with the Maasai people, and can visit one of their villages. Lake Nakuru National Park contains a special sanctuary set up to protect giraffes, as well as both black and white rhinos.

Aside from the famous Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, the must-see locations in Tanzania are the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Park, Lake Manyara National Park and Arusha National Park.

Visitors to the Serengeti National Park can witness the annual migration of two million wildebeest (plus hundreds of thousands of gazelles and zebras), followed closely by their predators. This epic voyage in search of grazing pastures and water is considered one of the most impressive spectacles in the natural world. Ngorongoro Conservation Park is home to the vast volcanic Ngorongoro Crater, as well as thousands of elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos.

Lake Manyara is famous for its abundance of flamingos, and is a fantastic spot for bird watching.

Lake Manyara National Park is known for the countless flamingos that inhabit the lake. More than 400 species of birds can be found at the park, making it a popular spot for ornithologists. Visitors can expect to see upwards of 100 different species on any given day. Arusha National Park is home to Mount Meru, a prominent volcano which is the second highest peak in Tanzania (after Mount Kilimanjaro).

Jetex operates an extensive network of FBOs and Ground Handling Stations throughout the African continent. The Jetex Lifestyle team can help you to plan and arrange your bespoke dream trip to Africa.

The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The enchantingly beautiful Galápagos Islands in Ecuador have been a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978. An amazing place to behold and to be, the Galápagos Islands is also known locally as the “Encantadas” (charmed or enchanted islands). This unspoiled archipelago possesses a unique ecosystem, which supports a huge variety of native flora and fauna. The most famous of these is the giant tortoise, which has become a symbol of the islands and the battle to preserve their outstanding natural beauty for future generations.

Green sea turtles, giant tortoises, iguanas, tanagers/finches and many other rare species are endemic to the islands.

The Galápagos Islands have three main airports. These are Seymour (SEGS), General Villamil (SEII), and San Cristobal (SEST). All can cater to General Aviation (GA), however none are Airports of Entry (AoE). All aircraft operating to the Galápagos must first land at an AoE on the Ecuadorian mainland (usually Quito (SEQM) or Guayaquil (SEGU)) to clear customs, immigration and quarantine. The Ecuador Civil Aviation Authority will not approve international flights to or from the Galápagos under any circumstances. Note also that no night-time operations are permitted. Airport formalities and ground handling arrangements should be prepared in advance.

The Jetex trip planning team will assist you on obtaining all necessary permits and permissions, and can guide you through the procedures which are in place to help protect the islands. These include a preregistration requirement on the Gobierno Galápagos website. The Transit Control Card System has been designed to strictly control the entry and exit of people going to and from the islands, whether as tourists, residents or visitors.

The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

Well-known for its biodiversity, the Amazon is teeming with wildlife of all kinds. The rainforest is home to 2.5 million insect species, tens of thousands of plants, and over 2,000 birds and mammals. At least 40,000 plant species, 2,200 fishes, 1,294 birds, 427 mammals, 428 amphibians, and 378 reptiles have been scientifically classified in the region to date. One in five of all bird species in the world live in the rainforest, and one in five of known fish species dwell in Amazonian rivers and streams.

The Amazon River spans the countries of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela. However around 60% of the Amazon jungle can be found within Brazil.

The 6,437km Amazon River is an important source of life for species endemic to the jungle, and for the indigenous communities who live there.

Eco-tours through the Amazon region will typically encompass a river cruise or jungle expedition. Popular destinations include the Amazon Basin, Iguazu Falls and the Pantanal wetlands.

Jetex is well-connected in Latin America, with FBO facilities in Mexico and Chile. Our network of trusted providers enables us to look after all of your trip planning, fueling and ground handling requirements, even in the most remote locations.

Kinabalu National Park, Sabah, Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu serves as the centerpiece of this protected site, which is the first ever UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia and the country’s first national park. The tallest mountain in the Malay Archipelago, it rises 4,095 meters or 13,435 feet above sea level. Mount Kinabalu is home to over 800 species of orchids and 500 species of ferns, more than can be found on the entire African continent.

There is also a huge diversity of animals, including 326 species of birds, 24 of which are found nowhere else on earth. Other creatures found here include orangutans, Malaysian weasels, leopards and Kinabalu giant red leeches.

Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia offers both relatively easy and challenging mountain trails.

Antarctica

A journey to Antarctica is considered a dream for most adventurous travelers. Not only is arranging a trip there a very expensive undertaking, but the rules and guidelines of visiting the continent are extremely stringent. Movement to and from the region is governed by the Environmental Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty of 1998.

Antarctica is home to Emperor Penguins, microscopic mites, snow petrels, colossal squids, etc.

The best time of the year for travel to the world’s least populated continent is considered to be from November to March. During mid-winter (occurring in June) some areas experience several weeks with no daylight at all, whereas visitors in December can experience 24-hour daylight. Travel by boat is possible from various countries, including Argentina, the Falkland Islands and Chile. Some sea travel arrangements involving helicopter trips usually begin in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. Air travel is available from Punta Arenas, Chile, Cape Town, South Africa and Australia, subject to ecotourism regulations and weather conditions. Flyover trips are also possible, for those who simply want to catch a glimpse of the icy continent from the comfort of a warm aircraft.

A Whole World to Explore

The above are just five examples of countless ecotourism destinations around the world. The planet has much to explore for the adventurous traveler. With undeveloped areas becoming increasingly scarce, and international concern growing on the impact of climate change, the need to raise awareness on the issues highlighted by ecotourism has never been more urgent.

Arrange Your Next Ecotourism Adventure with Jetex

Planning a trip to a remote region? Arrange your next adventure with Jetex!

The Jetex Lifestyle team can assist with organizing unique experiences, including ecotourism. Working with an extensive network of partners allows us to work miracles on your behalf. Our team excels in crafting bespoke packages unavailable elsewhere, guaranteeing a once in a lifetime voyage for intrepid explorers. If you can imagine it, we can arrange it! Click here to learn more.

For further information, please contact us on +971 4 212 4088 or lifestyle@jetex.com.