Transport Minister says 2024 already a record year in passenger traffic

A new record in passenger traffic has been recorded this year, with passenger traffic until 30 November 2024 exceeding last year's total, while it is expected that this year will observe a 5% increase compared to last year.

In an announcement by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, the Minister, Alexis Vafeades, expressed his satisfaction with this year's results.

"The increase in passenger traffic has a positive impact on the economy and tourism of Cyprus, and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works assures that it will continue its efforts to further enhance the connectivity of Cyprus and to improve the level of service offered to passengers through Larnaca and Paphos airports," it said.

In detail, during November 2024, Larnaca and Paphos airports welcomed 715,231 passengers, an increase of 7.01% compared to 2023 and the highest performance ever. Moreover, the highest passenger traffic over time has been recorded for the period January-November, with an increase of 5% compared to 2023.

Passenger volume at Larnaca Airport increased by 7.39%, while at Paphos Airport the increase was 6.05% compared to 2023. With the main markets being the United Kingdom, Greece, Poland, Israel and Germany, aircraft traffic increased by 4.89% compared to 2023 and amounted to 6,309 flights.

Larnaca and Paphos airports are facing the "pleasant problem" of increased passenger numbers, the Ministry said, noting that this creates the challenge of effectively serving the ever-increasing demand until the necessary investments, which include plans to expand their infrastructure, are completed.

The Minister thanks his team, as well as all the stakeholders who contributed to this effort, as these positive outcomes are the result of the joint methodical efforts of the Ministry, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and Hermes Airports Ltd for the development of airport connectivity, the press release said, adding that "expanding the network of Cypriot airports with new airlines and routes played a decisive role in this result."

(Source: CNA)