International Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Larnaca International Airport | Larnaca | LCA | LCLK |
| Paphos International Airport | Paphos | PFO | LCPH |
| Ercan International Airport* | Nicosia (Lefkoşa) | ECN | LCEN |
Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicosia International Airport** | Nicosia | None | LCNC |
| Akrotiri Airfield*** | Akrotiri (UK Sovereign Base) | None | LCRA |
Notes:
- Ercan International Airport: Located in Northern Cyprus, which is internationally recognized as part of the Republic of Cyprus but administered by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Flights are generally via Turkey due to political considerations.
- Nicosia International Airport: Non-operational since 1974 due to political conflict and now part of the United Nations Buffer Zone.
- Akrotiri Airfield: Used by the British Royal Air Force; not open to commercial passenger flights.
Cyprus Airports: Modernisation Plans Unveiled
Cyprus is a beautiful Mediterranean island with several airports serving both locals and tourists. The country has three main airports: Larnaca International Airport, Paphos International Airport, and Ercan International Airport. These airports connect Cyprus to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Larnaca International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Cyprus. It’s located on the southern coast, just 5 km from Larnaca city centre. The airport has modern facilities and handles most of the island’s international flights.
Paphos International Airport is the second-largest airport in Cyprus. It’s situated near the western coast and is popular with tourists visiting that region. Interestingly, Paphos Airport serves as both a public and military airport, with the Cyprus National Guard and Air Force also using its facilities.
Overview of Cyprus’s Airport Infrastructure
Cyprus has several airports serving both domestic and international travellers. These facilities play a crucial role in connecting the island to the rest of the world and supporting its tourism industry.
Main Airports Serving the Republic of Cyprus
The Republic of Cyprus is home to two major international airports. Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is the largest and busiest, located 5 km southwest of Larnaca city. It handles most of the island’s air traffic and serves as a hub for several airlines.
Paphos International Airport is the second-largest airport in the country. It’s situated 6.5 km southeast of Paphos city and caters primarily to tourist traffic, especially from the UK and other European countries.
Both airports offer modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and car hire services. They operate year-round, with increased flights during the peak summer tourist season.
Airports in Northern Cyprus
Northern Cyprus has one main functioning airport, Ercan International Airport. It’s located about 25 km east of North Nicosia and serves as the primary gateway for air travel to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Due to the political situation, Ercan Airport is only recognised by Turkey. Flights to and from Ercan must touch down in Turkey before continuing to their final destination.
The airport has undergone recent renovations to improve its facilities and increase capacity. It handles both domestic flights to Turkey and international charter flights.
Historical Airports and RAF Bases
Cyprus has a rich aviation history, with several former airports and military bases. Nicosia International Airport was once the main airport for Cyprus but has been closed since 1974 due to the island’s division.
RAF Akrotiri is an active Royal Air Force station within the UK’s Sovereign Base Areas. While primarily a military base, it occasionally handles civilian flights during emergencies or when other Cypriot airports are unavailable.
Several other former RAF bases, such as RAF Nicosia and RAF Tymbou, have been converted for civilian use or abandoned. These sites reflect Cyprus’s strategic importance during the 20th century.
Services and Amenities at Cyprus Airports
Cyprus airports offer a wide range of services to meet travellers’ needs. From flights to shopping, these airports aim to provide convenience and comfort.
Commercial and Charter Flights
Cyprus airports cater to both commercial and charter flights. Major airlines like British Airways, Ryanair, and Cyprus Airways operate regular routes. Charter flights are also available for holiday packages.
Larnaca International Airport, the largest in Cyprus, has 75 check-in counters and 21 boarding gates. This setup allows for smooth passenger processing.
Paphos International Airport serves as a smaller alternative. It began operations in 1983 and has grown steadily since then.
Ground Transportation and Car Rentals
Getting to and from Cyprus airports is easy. Taxis, buses, and shuttles are readily available.
Car hire is a popular option for tourists. Many car rental services have desks at the airports. Visitors can book in advance or upon arrival.
Some hotels offer free shuttle services. These can be booked at counters in the arrivals hall.
Duty-Free Shopping and Leisure Facilities
Cyprus airports boast excellent shopping opportunities. Duty-free shops sell a variety of goods at tax-free prices.
For dining, there are restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine. Bars offer a place to relax before flights.
Other amenities include:
- ATMs from various banks
- Currency exchange services
- Baggage storage areas
- Wi-Fi access
These facilities ensure travellers have everything they need while waiting for their flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cyprus airports serve millions of travellers each year. These key questions cover important details about operating hours, transport options, facilities, entry requirements and recommended arrival times.
What are the operating hours of the main airports in Cyprus?
The two main international airports in Cyprus operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport are open round-the-clock to accommodate flights at all hours.
How can one travel from Cyprus airports to nearby cities?
Travellers have several options to reach nearby cities from Cyprus airports. Public buses connect Larnaca Airport to cities like Nicosia, Limassol and Paphos. Taxis and car hire services are also available at the airports.
What facilities are available at Cyprus international airports?
Cyprus international airports offer a range of amenities for passengers. These include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange services, and free Wi-Fi. Luggage storage facilities are also available at Larnaca Airport.
Are there any visa requirements for entering Cyprus through its airports?
Visa requirements depend on the traveller’s nationality and purpose of visit. EU citizens can enter Cyprus with just a valid passport or ID card. Non-EU visitors may need to obtain a visa before arrival.
How early should passengers arrive at Cypriot airports before their flight?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This allows time for check-in, security procedures and any unexpected delays.
What transportation options are there for leaving the airport in Cyprus?
Passengers can choose from various transport options when leaving Cyprus airports. These include taxis, car rentals, public buses and pre-booked airport transfers. Some hotels also offer shuttle services for their guests.
