Cyprus Leads in EU Air Travel Growth with Millions of Tourists

Published on December 10, 2025

Cyprus airports experienced a record surge in passenger traffic in August 2025, marking the peak of a successful summer season for air travel. According to Eurostat data, the overall number of passengers flying across the European Union rose by 8.3% compared to the previous year, with Cyprus seeing a notable increase in its own airport activity. The spike in air travel is a sign of the strong recovery in tourism across Europe, with Cyprus benefitting from this upward trend.

Cyprus, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture, remains a top destination for international tourists. The increase in air travel to Cyprus highlights its growing appeal, particularly during the summer months when the island’s tourism sector traditionally peaks. The country’s airports, including Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport, have seen growing international traffic as visitors flock to the island for vacations, business trips, and cultural events.

Strong Tourism Growth in Cyprus

The 8.3% increase in air travel across the EU is a significant indicator of the post-pandemic recovery in the tourism sector. Cyprus, an island located in the eastern Mediterranean, has traditionally been a popular destination for European tourists, particularly from the UK, Germany, and Russia. The rise in passenger numbers throughout the summer, particularly in August, indicates that Cyprus remains a major player in European tourism.

In August, Cyprus saw particularly high traffic due to the peak holiday season. The island offers a diverse range of attractions, including its Mediterranean beaches, ancient ruins, vibrant nightlife, and exquisite cuisine. This wide range of offerings continues to draw international visitors, from families seeking beach holidays to history enthusiasts exploring the ancient city of Kourion and the Tomb of the Kings in Paphos.

The surge in air travel is also driven by Cyprus’s position as a major hub for both business and leisure tourism. The island has seen increased interest from business travelers attending conferences, international meetings, and events. With its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus continues to play an important role in facilitating business and leisure travel in the region.

Larnaca and Paphos Airports: Key Hubs for Cyprus Tourism

The two main airports in Cyprus, Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport, have been essential in accommodating the rise in passenger traffic. Larnaca, the larger of the two, serves as the primary gateway for international visitors, handling the majority of flights from European and international destinations. Paphos, which primarily serves the western side of the island, also plays a key role in connecting visitors to the island’s tourist destinations.

Both airports have been expanding and modernizing their facilities to handle the growing influx of travelers. Larnaca International Airport, in particular, has undergone significant upgrades to improve passenger flow, enhance security measures, and expand its duty-free shopping and dining options. This modernization is designed to improve the overall travel experience, making it more convenient for tourists to enter and exit Cyprus.

The Rise of Low-Cost Airlines and New Routes

One of the driving forces behind the surge in air travel to Cyprus is the rise of low-cost airlines, which have expanded their routes to and from the island. Budget carriers such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air have significantly increased their flight offerings to Cyprus, making the island more accessible to a wider range of travelers. This expansion of affordable options has opened Cyprus up to a new demographic of tourists, particularly those looking for affordable beach holidays and short city breaks.

Additionally, Cyprus has seen an increase in new routes from regional airports across Europe, further boosting the number of visitors. With more frequent connections from cities like Berlin, Stockholm, and Milan, the island is becoming increasingly integrated into European travel networks, making it easier for visitors to travel to Cyprus for both short stays and extended vacations.

Focus on Sustainable and Responsible Tourism

As Cyprus continues to attract an increasing number of visitors, the focus on sustainable tourism has grown. The government and local tourism authorities are working to balance the rise in tourism with environmental and cultural preservation. Efforts to reduce carbon footprints, promote eco-friendly accommodations, and protect natural sites are part of the strategy to ensure that Cyprus remains an attractive and sustainable destination for future generations.

In recent years, Cyprus has invested in initiatives to boost green tourism, with a focus on promoting nature-based tourism, such as hiking in the Troodos Mountains or exploring the protected areas of the Akamas Peninsula. Additionally, more hotels and resorts in Cyprus are adopting sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, and encouraging visitors to engage in eco-friendly activities.

Future Prospects for Cyprus’ Air Travel and Tourism

Looking ahead, the future of Cyprus’ tourism and air travel remains promising. The ongoing recovery in European tourism, combined with Cyprus’ growing appeal as a destination for both business and leisure travelers, will continue to drive passenger numbers in the coming years. With further improvements to infrastructure, more sustainable tourism initiatives, and the ongoing development of new flight routes, Cyprus is poised to remain a top destination in the Mediterranean.

The projected growth of air travel to Cyprus will also benefit the local economy, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transportation. As more international travelers visit the island, there will be continued opportunities for local businesses to thrive, contributing to the overall prosperity of the region.

Conclusion

The surge in air travel to Cyprus, as evidenced by the 8.3% increase in passenger numbers across the EU, marks an exciting chapter for the island’s tourism sector. With over 30 million visitors expected, and airports like Larnaca and Paphos leading the charge, Cyprus remains one of Europe’s most accessible and desirable destinations. The island’s unique blend of cultural history, beautiful landscapes, and modern amenities ensures it will continue to attract both leisure and business travelers from around the globe.

As the tourism industry continues to grow, Cyprus is setting a standard for sustainable travel while offering visitors a chance to explore one of the most charming and historic regions in Europe.