April ended with a 16% decrease in passenger traffic and an aircraft load factor of 76% at Larnaca and Paphos airports, compared to 83% during the same period last year, according to Hermes Airports, which notes, however, that from April 20 onward, arrival load factors have improved to between 80% and 85%, while key tourism markets such as the UK and Poland are performing particularly strongly, with load factors exceeding 90%.
It is also noted that Cyprus’s connectivity remains robust, with 54 airlines operating flights to and from Cypriot airports to 165 destinations in 42 countries. Meanwhile, it is noted the company has been assured that fuel stocks are sufficient, and there has been no impact on flight schedules due to fuel-related issues, adding it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide an update if deemed necessary.
Regarding recent reports on passenger traffic, the company notes in a statement that April of this year closed with a 16% decrease compared to the same month in 2025, representing a decrease of 95,000 arriving passengers in absolute numbers.
‘Aircraft load factors averaged 76% across both airports, down from 83% during the same period last year,’ it is added.
Regarding airlines’ flight schedules for the current summer season, April-October, Hermes Airports reports that some adjustments have been made, with the reduction in total seats not exceeding 5% (600,000 seats), while expanded flight schedules have been announced for September. The estimated loss of passengers for this period is around 9%, or approximately 450,000 arriving passengers.”
Encouraging, it is noted, is the fact that over the last 15 days, that is, from April 20 onward, arrival load factors have ranged between 80% and 85%, while in key tourist markets such as the United Kingdom and Poland, load factors exceed 90%.
The country’s connectivity, the statement continues, remains strong, with 54 airlines operating flights to and from Cypriot airports to 165 destinations in 42 countries, adding that most of the recent adjustments involve fewer reductions in weekly frequencies rather than the cancellation of routes.
Indicatively, Hermes Airport states that for flights to Cyprus airports in May from the UK market, the average number of flights is 30 per day with a passenger load factor of 92%, from Israel 20 flights per day with a 60% passenger load factor, Poland 9 flights per day with a 93% passenger load factor, and Germany 8 flights per day with an 86% passenger load factor.
It is also noted that through ongoing engagement with airlines and tour operators, as well as targeted promotional campaigns, a wide range of offers is being made available for the summer season, initiatives that ‘aim to encourage travelers to choose Cyprus as their next destination, while also supporting outbound travel for the Cypriot public.’
We recognize,” the company’s statement continues, “that this year presents new challenges, following two consecutive record-breaking years for both tourism and passenger traffic. In this context, it is essential to act in a coordinated, realistic, and decisive manner to reverse the current trend and stimulate demand.’
It is further noted that ‘maintaining current connectivity, strengthening targeted promotion in key markets, supporting airlines in a meaningful way, and extending the tourism season remain key priorities.’
‘Through collective effort and timely interventions, we can capitalize on the opportunities of the year, mitigate pressures, and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth in the coming years,’ the statement concludes.