Cyprus is not among the countries causing delays in European aviation in 2026, the Department of Civil Aviation reports, clarifying that, despite increased traffic in the Nicosia FIR due to the crisis in the Middle East, air traffic control services are operating safely and efficiently.
In its announcement, the Department refers to reports that originated in the Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom and speak of serious congestion in Greek and Cypriot airspace, citing data from EUROCONTROL.
As it notes, the airspace of the Eastern Mediterranean and in particular the Nicosia FIR received increased traffic volumes this summer, as air flows were redirected due to the broader crisis in the Middle East.
It stresses, however, that increased flight volume should not be confused with air traffic control delays. According to EUROCONTROL network performance data, the Department adds, France and Greece are the main contributors to air traffic flow management delays this summer, together accounting for over 60% of the total.
The Department states that Cyprus is not included in the "hot spots" of delays in EUROCONTROL's weekly reports, while the capacity and staffing pressures described in the publications concern the air traffic control centre in Greece and not Cyprus.
It adds that air traffic control units in Cyprus, including the Control Center and the Larnaca and Paphos Control Towers, are safely managing the increased traffic, which has led to historic flight records.
According to the announcement, the effective management of additional traffic demonstrates the resilience of the Cypriot air navigation system and is attributed to the effort of the staff, the reliability of the infrastructure and the investments in technology and operational procedures.
The Department also notes that the increased traffic confirms the Republic of Cyprus' critical role as a stable and reliable aviation hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.
"Cyprus is not part of the problem of European delays. On the contrary, for 2026 it is part of the solution," it says, adding that it will continue to cooperate with EUROCONTROL, international aviation organizations and regional partners, with the aim of maintaining high levels of safety, efficiency and quality of service.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
