Larnaka Airport Set for Major Expansion
Larnaka International Airport in Cyprus, operated by Hermes Airports, has experienced impressive growth, handling 8.6 million passengers in 2024—a 6% increase from the previous year. This surge in traffic has set the stage for an ambitious second phase of expansion, set to transform the airport over the next 30 months and boost its annual passenger capacity to 12.4 million. With a key focus on establishing sustainable, year-round connectivity, Hermes Airports is positioning Larnaka International to become a central hub in the region.
The airport’s strategic vision includes enhancing its winter traffic, which now accounts for 25% of total passenger numbers—a notable improvement that still leaves considerable room for growth. To further drive year-round travel, Hermes Airports has joined forces with tourism stakeholders across Cyprus. In January 2025, a high-level conference titled “Beyond Sea and Sun” brought together airlines, tourism bodies, government representatives, and municipal authorities to discuss strategies aimed at transforming Cyprus into a destination that appeals to travelers throughout the year. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to sustainable development and long-term connectivity for the island.
During the winter 2024–25 season, Larnaka International expanded its route network significantly. Notable additions include Wizz Air’s new year-round service to Milan, which operates three times per week starting in September 2024, and LOT Polish Airlines’ direct flights to Warsaw, offering four weekly departures throughout the winter. EasyJet also launched a twice-weekly service to Amsterdam, further enhancing the airport’s connectivity. Looking ahead, SkyUp Airlines is set to introduce a direct service to Chisinau, Moldova from April 2025, with flights operating three times per week. Cyprus Airways will follow with a new seasonal route to Venice, beginning in May with two weekly flights, while Transavia France has expanded its summer 2025 schedule with new routes connecting Larnaka to Marseille and Lyon.
Larnaka International Airport operates around the clock, serving 55 airlines from diverse carrier types. Over the years, the airport has maintained a balanced portfolio of routes, and its growth is exemplified by the expansion of Wizz Air’s presence. Originally establishing a base in 2020 with two aircraft, Wizz Air now operates with four based aircraft, making it the airport’s largest airline by capacity. With the infrastructure in place to handle future passenger growth, Larnaka International has identified multiple route opportunities to close existing air connectivity gaps.
Market analysis has revealed strong future demand in several key markets. Spain represents one of the most promising opportunities, as indirect travel between Cyprus and Spain already totals 53,000 passengers annually, with Madrid and Barcelona leading demand. Germany, one of Cyprus’s top source markets, offers potential for expanded service from regional cities, while indirect demand from Ireland, Belgium, Portugal, Italy, and India further highlights the region’s growth potential. Several routes remain unserved or underserved, including connections to major European cities and emerging markets like Delhi, where demand continues to rise.
The ongoing expansion and strategic initiatives at Larnaka International Airport not only promise increased capacity and improved connectivity but also position Cyprus as a growing global travel hub, ready to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers.
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