Larnaca: Aircraft load factors at Larnaca and Paphos airports stood at 76% in April, marking a 16% decline in passenger traffic compared to the same period last year, according to Hermes Airports. Notably, from April 20 onward, load factors improved to between 80% and 85%, with key tourism markets such as the UK and Poland achieving load factors exceeding 90%.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Cyprus's connectivity remains strong with 54 airlines operating flights to and from Cypriot airports, reaching 165 destinations across 42 countries. Despite recent concerns, fuel stocks are reported to be sufficient, and there has been no impact on flight schedules due to fuel-related issues. Hermes Airports is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates if necessary.
Recent reports indicate that April saw a 16% decrease in passenger traffic compared to April 2025, equating to a loss of 95,000 arriving passengers. The average aircraft load factor was 76%, down from 83% during the same period last year. Adjustments to airlines' flight schedules for the April-October summer season have resulted in a reduction of total seats by no more than 5%, or 600,000 seats. An estimated passenger loss of around 9%, or approximately 450,000 arriving passengers, is expected for this period.
Encouragingly, from April 20 onward, arrival load factors have ranged between 80% and 85%. In key tourist markets such as the United Kingdom and Poland, load factors exceed 90%. Cyprus maintains strong connectivity, with 54 airlines operating flights to 165 destinations in 42 countries. Recent adjustments have focused on fewer reductions in weekly frequencies rather than route cancellations.
Hermes Airports reports that May flights to Cyprus airports from the UK market average 30 per day with a passenger load factor of 92%. From Israel, there are 20 flights per day with a 60% load factor, Poland 9 flights per day with a 93% load factor, and Germany 8 flights per day with an 86% load factor.
Ongoing engagement with airlines and tour operators, along with targeted promotional campaigns, aim to encourage travelers to choose Cyprus as their next destination, while also supporting outbound travel for Cypriots. The company recognizes the challenges of the year following record-breaking tourism and passenger traffic in previous years and emphasizes the importance of coordinated actions to reverse current trends and stimulate demand.
Maintaining current connectivity, strengthening targeted promotion in key markets, supporting airlines meaningfully, and extending the tourism season remain key priorities. Through collective effort and timely interventions, Hermes Airports aims to capitalize on opportunities, mitigate pressures, and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth in the coming years.