The €170 million expansion plans for Larnaca and Paphos airports are now open for public consultation, with feedback invited until January 15, 2025.
Hermes Airports, the operator under a long-term concession agreement, said that it seeks to modernise facilities, address increasing passenger traffic, and bolster Cyprus’ standing as a key regional aviation hub.
The second phase of expansion of Larnaca International Airport, with a budget of €95 million, is expected to take 24 months.
Passenger capacity will rise to 12.5 million annually, a significant increase from over eight million in 2023 and more than double the five million recorded in 2007.
The project includes an extension of the terminal building to the east, where new space will accommodate departure passport control and security functions.
Existing passport control areas will be converted into commercial space, offering additional seating for passengers.
The departure gate area will be extended to the west through a connected wing, designed to house new gates for passenger entry and exit.
The plans allow for the future addition of passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) and connectivity to a potential second terminal envisioned in the third phase of the airport’s plan.
Meanwhile, the baggage reclaim area will be expanded to include at least one new carousel, with space reserved for a second, if needed.
The eastern runway will also be extended, designed initially for single-entry and exit operations but adaptable to a dual-runway configuration in the future.
At Paphos International Airport, the €75 million second phase expansion is expected to take 18 months to complete, increasing annual passenger capacity to five million, up from over three million in 2023.
The work involves constructing an additional section of the southern parallel taxiway, complete with all necessary lighting and safety features.
The existing terminal will also be expanded to the east, creating space for new immigration functions and at least three baggage claim units, with provisions for a fourth.
The current arrivals area will be reconfigured to house security screening and additional passenger gates, while commercial spaces will be expanded to provide more seating for passengers in centrally accessible locations.
The ground-level restaurant will be relocated to an outdoor area to maximise space.
Additionally, the project will demonstrate how the terminal can handle Schengen and non-Schengen passenger flows during peak periods, maintaining high service standards for both.
All studies related to the project are being undertaken by Bouygues Batiment International and Egis Aviation.
However, the environmental and social impact assessment is being undertaken by Egis Structures et Environment, together with the Cypriot consulting firm La Solas Services Ltd.
Hermes Airports said that it “has placed a strong emphasis on sustainability” throughout the expansions, integrating energy-efficient systems such as advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology.
Nevertheless, consultations with residents have revealed concerns over increased aircraft noise, air quality, and the overall impact on local quality of life.
In response, proposed measures include encouraging the use of quieter, fuel-efficient aircraft, implementing enhanced air quality monitoring, and introducing operational restrictions to minimise noise, particularly during peak residential hours.
Despite these concerns, public consultation has shown significant support for the projects.
The expansions are expected to support Cyprus’ economy and tourism industry over time, with upgraded infrastructure potentially attracting new airlines, opening additional routes, and improving global connectivity.
Finally, it was mentioned that both projects will be carried out within the current airport boundaries, avoiding the need for land acquisition or relocation.
