KM Malta pilot caught flying for Virgin Atlantic during rest periods

Several pilots are up in arms over KM Malta Airlines’ lack of action against a first officer caught working simultaneously for another airline

The incident reportedly happened last month when First Officer Danica Theuma was caught flying UK-based Virgin Atlantic planes while also working as a pilot for KM Malta Airlines.

Theuma was using her obligatory rest periods for travelling to London and flying Virgin Atlantic planes out of Heathrow airport, her colleagues told The Shift.

The Virgin Atlantic destinations from London airports

Virgin Atlantic reportedly fired Theuma on the spot as soon as the airline learned that the first officer was simultaneously flying for Malta’s national carrier.

However, Theuma continues to work with KM Malta Airlines despite the company being informed of the severe security breaches of its first officer.

Breach of contract and safety rules

The Shift also noted that the pilot broke international safety rules that impose strict regulatory constraints regarding duty times and rest periods to ensure passenger and crew safety.

Pilots who spoke to the newsroom said their contract did not allow them to work for another airline and that Theuma compromised the passengers’ safety.

Theuma may also have compromised the airline’s insurance and liability as well as her own, the report cited aviation industry sources.

KM Malta Airlines dead silent

Questions sent by The Shift to KM Malta Airlines Executive Chairman David Curmi and Chief Human Resources Director Robert Fenech remained unanswered.

On Saturday afternoon, Malta Aviation Outlook reported that the national airline had initially intended to fire the first officer.

“However the highest echelons appear to have had a change of heart at the very last minute despite the infringement”, it said.

The Facebook posting later stated that the first officer was flying for Virgin Atlantic and Air Malta “since December 2023 prior to the changeover to KM Malta Airlines that took place on 31st March”.

Earlier this year, Air Malta transitioned to KM Malta Airlines, abandoning its old branding but retaining most of its failed managers and consultants.

Cover Image: KM Malta Airlines