Cyprus airports ready to welcome 8 million passengers this summer

With more than 3,000 employees rushing about the airport grounds every day to complete a variety of jobs, the heat of summer is almost here at Cyprus's airports. The authority in charge of overseeing these busy hubs, Hermes Airports, provided the information in an announcement on Tuesday.

Cyprus airports, anticipating a significant increase in business, are preparing to host around 5,000 workers, including seasonal hires and permanent personnel. The objective is to guarantee smooth operations at the peak season, when more than 8 million passengers are anticipated to pass through the terminals from the months of April to October.

For weeks now, engineers, operators, and other staff members have been rushing in and out of the airports as part of the preparations. In an effort to prepare the facilities for the impending busy season, construction sites have appeared and specific parts have been blocked off to allow for continuous work.

A number of entities within the airport ecosystem, such as ground handling, security firms, restaurants, and management companies, are recruiting staff for a variety of positions. The Civil Aviation Authorities require these candidates to go through intense training on airport operations and safety standards, with a focus on providing excellent customer service and hospitality.

Hermes Airports, through its Hermes Academy, provides specialized programs to reinforce these aspects, ensuring that staff are well-equipped to handle the influx of travelers.

Significant progress has been made at Paphos Airport, with the completion of work on the Remote Gates, including the installation of protective glass and upgrades to heating and air conditioning systems. Meanwhile, crews have been diligently working on the tunnel as part of the airports’ long-term maintenance program.

Development projects are also coming up, with a major expansion of parking areas at both airports, adding over 300 new spaces for public use. Plans are in place to develop more than 7,000 square meters of infrastructure, indicating a substantial growth in capacity.

Moreover, passengers can expect an upgrade in information dissemination, as high-definition screens are set to replace older ones across the airports. Additionally, there's a move to replace carpets with ceramic tiles featuring traditional Lefkarite patterns, to add a local touch to the aesthetic.

Remodelled and improved waiting spaces for distinguished passengers are coming together nicely at Larnaca Airport. Two new lounges should be finished by the end of May. In the meantime, the cafeterias at Paphos Airport have been renovated via restorations, providing passengers with a new experience.

The food and beverage (F&B) team at Cyprus airports are constantly updating the cafeteria menus to align with the latest trends in international catering. In an effort to accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences, vegan and vegetarian alternatives are being added, with the goal of having them constitute 30% of menu items by 2025.

Cyprus's airports are getting ready for a busy summer by making substantial preparations to guarantee that the millions of passengers who will pass through their gates have a smooth and comfortable experience.