Cyprus’ Larnaka and Paphos Airports Witness Record Passenger Traffic in 2023

In a significant development for Cyprus’ aviation sector, Larnaka International Airport (LCA) and Paphos International Airport (PFO) experienced unprecedented passenger traffic in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. According to Hermes Airports, which oversees both hubs, the airports collectively handled 11.6 million passengers, marking a 3% increase compared to 2019 figures.

LCA demonstrated particularly robust growth, with a passenger count of 8.1 million in 2023, a 34% increase from 2022. Meanwhile, PFO also showed a notable uptick in traffic, serving 3.6 million passengers, which is 12% higher than the previous year.

The year 2023 saw significant airline activity at these airports, with 52 airlines operating 159 routes to 39 countries. This resurgence in traffic is largely credited to the restoration of pre-pandemic level connectivity, especially with traditional markets like the United Kingdom. Additionally, the airports made substantial inroads into other markets, with notable increases in traffic from countries such as Poland, Italy, and Hungary. These 28 markets accounted for 66% of the total passenger traffic in 2023.

During the summer, the airports averaged 41,000 passengers per day, while the winter months saw an average of 18,000 daily passengers. This trend highlights Cyprus’ growing appeal as a year-round travel destination.

Looking ahead to the winter of 2023-24, Hermes anticipates a 30% increase in available airline seats compared to the same period in 2019. An average of 70 flights per day are expected, with 30 airlines connecting Cyprus to 35 countries and 102 destinations.

Maria Kouroupi, Senior Manager of Aviation Development at Hermes, commented on this positive trend, emphasizing that the increase in passenger traffic and enhanced connectivity bolster various sectors of the Cypriot economy. With the country’s connectivity now on a solid footing, there is an optimistic outlook for 2024 and beyond, as Cyprus continues to establish itself as a key destination in the Mediterranean region.