The long-standing problem of expensive airfares and limited connections facing Cypriot students abroad was discussed during the first meeting of the newly constituted House Transport Committee. Cyprus Airways said it was preparing a student discount scheme, while MPs agreed that demand should be mapped across university cities before further measures are considered.
The issue was raised by the Pan-Cyprian Federation of Student Unions (POFEN), along with the student groups FPK Protoporia, Proodeftiki KF, the DRASIS-KES Cypriot Students’ Union and the ELAM Youth Front.
Their main requests included flights from more cities, particularly in Greece, as well as reduced fares and lower checked-baggage charges for students.
POFEN General Secretariat President Marios Kampouris said students in Greek cities such as Volos, Patras and Alexandroupoli, as well as those studying in Bulgaria, are often forced to fly through major cities. They must then spend additional money and time travelling to their university towns by bus or train.
The Transport Ministry clarified that it cannot intervene directly in airfares. However, it said pressure could be applied and recommendations made regarding the need to support students on the issues raised.
Hermes says reduced tax is not being used
Hermes Airports acknowledged that a 50% tax reduction is available for student fares, provided the flights are registered as serving students.
In practice, however, airlines do not use the provision and are not required to pass the reduction on to students.
A Hermes Airports representative also said previous efforts had been made to increase the number of destinations, but these routes did not receive sufficient support from passengers.
Airlines consider discount schemes
Airlines expressed their willingness to consider measures addressing the difficulties faced by students, although they also voiced reservations.
Cyprus Airways appears ready to take the most substantial step by introducing discounted student fares, with the scheme initially targeted for December.
A company representative said that, following a pilot discount programme for military personnel launched in May, Cyprus Airways had decided to extend the initiative to students. At a later stage, the airline also plans to offer free checked baggage on three journeys per year.
The scheme has not yet been finalised, however, and students may not begin benefiting from it until after the Christmas period. Presenting a valid student identity card will be compulsory.
Athens-based Aegean Airlines referred to its existing programmes aimed at younger passengers, regardless of whether they are students.
Cyprus Airways, Aegean Airlines and Tus Airways all stressed that they are facing financial pressure from higher fuel costs. They added that any reduction in airport taxes would be negligible and would therefore provide little benefit to students.
Student numbers to be recorded by city
The committee decided that student organisations should record the number of Cypriot students living in each city abroad.
The data will be submitted to the airlines and the Transport Ministry, providing a clearer overall picture of students’ needs and allowing possible relief measures to be assessed.
Student representatives also proposed increasing allowances provided through the state student welfare scheme, based on social criteria.
