There are journeys, I confess, that begin long before takeoff. They begin with anticipation, with a new route opening up on the map and with the feeling that yet another destination is now closer. Especially on an island like Cyprus, where the plane is our only means of getting abroad and therefore every new direct connection takes on its own special significance.
And so began our long-awaited trip to Madrid, with the official first Wizz flight. Air from Larnaca to the Spanish capital.
The meeting point before boarding was the departure gate at Larnaka Airport, where Hermes Airports and Wizz Air had prepared a small celebration with food and drinks for the official first flight to Madrid. After all, every new direct connection is a small victory in itself, a moment that brings people and smiles together around a common goal, to open another direct route from Cyprus to the world.
There, among the passengers and media representatives, excitement was widespread. Director of Aviation Development, Marketing and Communication Maria Kouroupi and the Network Director of Wizz Air, Andras Szabo, cut the celebratory cake, while the wide smiles in the photos perhaps say more than any statement.
Efforts create new routes
In her speech, Maria Kouroupi spoke about the importance of the new connection and the continuous effort to expand the options offered to passengers from Cypriot airports through the coordinated actions of Hermes Airports and its partners.
“The launch of the direct connection between Larnaca and Madrid is a significant addition to our route network, further expanding the travel options offered to passengers. This new connection is the result of our continuous efforts and our close cooperation with Wizz Air, a long-time partner of Hermes Airports. We are particularly pleased to continue to collaborate on the development of new routes and the further strengthening of Cyprus' air connectivity. We wish the new route every success," she said.
Wizz's commitment to Cyprus
On his part, Andras Szabo, Network Director of Wizz Air, spoke about the importance of the new direct connection, but also about the airline's ongoing commitment to Cyprus.
"We are delighted to launch the direct connection between Larnaca and Madrid, connecting two destinations of strategic importance to us. This new route reflects our continued commitment to Cyprus and our ambition to enhance connectivity between Cyprus and Spain, offering passengers more choice, better value and easier access to new opportunities for travel, business and tourism," he said.
And the journey begins
And just like that, amidst a festive atmosphere, with cameras and mobile phones recording the moment, it was time to board. Time to say goodbye to Larnaca – ¡Hola Madrid!
As for the flight, I have to say that it was more than just the start of a new air route. For us, the media representatives and the other passengers who had the opportunity to be on that first flight, it was the beginning of an experience that we will remember forever. How beautiful, after all, to be able to say: “I was on that first flight too.”
And now, this route is available three times a week, connecting Larnaca directly with Madrid.
The pilot's enthusiasm
Arriving in Madrid, another special moment awaited us. A few minutes after landing, we found ourselves in the cockpit, where we had the opportunity to chat with the flight captain, Oana Mocan.
With obvious enthusiasm, she spoke to us about her experience, about how exciting the profession of captain is and about the special significance it had for her to be the one who first operated the new Larnaca-Madrid connection.
What stood out, however, was the love and pride with which she spoke about her work and the fact that she is a member of the large Wizz Air family. An enthusiasm that proves that behind every flight are people who truly love what they do. And somewhere there, you realize that a journey is not just about the destination. It's also about the people you meet along the way and the stories they leave you with.
Madrid, the city that invites you to discover it
And somewhere there, leaving behind the experience of the first flight, our acquaintance with Madrid essentially begins. A city full of history, culture and images that take you on a journey, with the imposing Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, the Plaza Mayor, the Puerta del Sol and the lush green Parque del Retiro are just some of the places worth discovering.
And of course, Madrid is not complete without flavours and evening walks. Tapas, paella, markets, small bars, rooftops, lively streets that are filled with people until late and the characteristic rhythm of flamenco make up a city that knows how to captivate you. A city that you can visit again and again and discover something different each time.
Wizz Air's new direct connection, Madrid is now closer to Cyprus for a journey full of images, flavors, history and unique moments.
Viva España!
