Larnaca and Paphos airports rank first among European airports in the rate of growth of direct air connectivity, the number of flights, and the total number of destinations served, Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis said on Thursday, citing official data.
Speaking at an event at Larnaca Airport marking five years since the establishment of Wizz Air’s base in Cyprus and the milestone of 10 million passengers carried to and from the island, Koumis stressed:
“For island destinations like Cyprus, air connectivity and its improvement is not simply an economic activity but something far more important. When achieved, it strengthens economic activity, encourages international trade, boosts travel flows, and becomes a driver for attracting investment.”
He added that these results reflect “the excellent cooperation between the public and private sectors, namely Hermes Airports and the numerous airlines operating flights to Cyprus.”
Referring to the ACI Europe Airport Industry Connectivity Report, published in June 2025, the Deputy Minister said:
“Larnaca and Paphos airports rank first among European airports in the rate of growth of direct connectivity, the number of flights, and the total number of destinations served. The increase recorded for 2025 compared to 2024 amounts to 18%.”
He further noted that “according to the same source, Cyprus ranks second among European countries in terms of the increase in direct air connections when comparing 2025 with 2019.”
Koumis also recalled that “on June 25, we welcomed a fourth aircraft to the Larnaca base, another clear sign of Wizz Air’s long-term commitment to Cyprus as a strategic destination. From 1,631 flight arrivals and 284,151 passengers in 2018, the airline has expanded significantly, reaching 5,000 flights and nearly one million passenger arrivals in 2024, an impressive 240% increase in just seven years.”
Dr. Marina Ioannou Hasapi, Director-General of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, described the company’s achievement as “further proof of the dynamic growth of Cyprus’ aviation sector". On behalf of Minister of Transport Alexis Vafeades and the Ministry, Dr. Hasapi conveyed “sincere congratulations for this major achievement,” wished even greater success in the future, and expressed confidence that “Wizz Air’s growth in Cyprus will continue its upward trajectory, contributing significantly to the country’s development and international standing.”
Elena Kallogirou, Chief Executive Officer of Hermes Airports, noted that Wizz Air’s expansion in Cyprus “is powerful evidence of how an honest and productive partnership can grow", benefiting both sides, with a positive impact felt directly by travelers and, consequently, by the economy and tourism of our country.
She added that “the foundation of our successful cooperation lies in key pillars: effective and consistent communication established over the years, immediate response to emerging needs, the ability to read market trends and adapt accordingly, and, of course, strong support for our destination.”
At the same time, she referred to the second phase of airport development works in Cyprus, which began in late March, stressing that these “are scheduled to be completed within the agreed timeline, 27 months for Paphos and 30 months for Larnaca ensuring that we will continue to provide excellent services to our passengers, meeting all modern requirements and building our airports with the future in mind.”
Andras Rado, Head of Communications at Wizz Air, expressed gratitude for this “remarkable achievement in Cyprus,” adding:
“We are proud to celebrate this great milestone of 10 million passengers to and from Cyprus, alongside the five-year anniversary of our Larnaca base.”
“Cyprus is one of the most dynamic hubs in our network, and we remain committed to offering even more travelers safe and affordable flight options,” he said, adding:
“We will continue to invest in Cyprus, further strengthening connectivity while supporting the country’s tourism and economy.”
CNA
