Nicosia: Cyprus is not among the countries causing delays in Europe's air traffic network in 2026, the Civil Aviation Department has stated, emphasizing that air traffic control services continue to operate safely and efficiently despite increased traffic in the Nicosia Flight Information Region due to the crisis in the Middle East.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Department issued a response to media reports, first published by the Israeli newspaper 'Israel Hayom', which alleged significant congestion in Greek and Cypriot airspace. These reports cited EUROCONTROL traffic data as evidence of the congestion.
The Department clarified that while the Nicosia FIR has handled increased traffic volumes this summer, with some flight routes being redirected due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, this should not be mistaken for air traffic control delays. EUROCONTROL network performance data indicates that France and Greece are the primary contributors to en-route air traffic flow management delays this summer, jointly accounting for over 60% of such delays across the network.
Cyprus does not appear as a delay hotspot in EUROCONTROL's weekly reports, the Department added. The capacity and staffing issues mentioned in media reports pertain to the air traffic control center in Greece, not Cyprus.
The Department assured that Cyprus' air traffic control units, including the Area Control Centre and the control towers at Larnaca and Paphos airports, are effectively managing the increased traffic, leading to record flight numbers.
The statement highlighted the successful handling of additional traffic, demonstrating the resilience and efficiency of Cyprus' air navigation system. It credited this success to the efforts of the staff, the reliability of the country's infrastructure, and continued investment in technology and operational procedures.
It further noted that the increase in traffic underscores the Republic of Cyprus' vital role as a stable and reliable aviation hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The Department concluded by stating, "Cyprus is not part of Europe's air traffic delay problem. On the contrary, in 2026 it is part of the solution." It added that Cyprus would continue to collaborate closely with EUROCONTROL, international aviation organizations, and regional partners to maintain high standards of safety, efficiency, and service quality for airlines and passengers.