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Cyprus Airports Brace for Record-Breaking August Surge

Record Traffic Projections

Cyprus’ premier airports, operated by Hermes Airports, are poised to welcome over 1.6 million passengers this August, setting a historic benchmark for the region. The summer peak, traditionally observed at Larnaca and Paphos, signals an unprecedented influx with current figures already exceeding last year’s record levels.

Enhanced Passenger Services

In anticipation of peak travel volumes, Hermes Airports strategically advises all passengers to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled flights. Updated guidance, particularly during peak hours, may be disseminated via the company’s active social media channels. Additionally, travel convenience is heightened through advanced parking reservations via the Hermes website, offering flexible options and competitive online pricing.

Streamlined Check-In And Security

Innovative digital initiatives are playing a critical role in smoothing the travel experience. The introduction of a digital chatbot, accessible through Facebook Messenger, Viber, and X (formerly Twitter), provides real-time flight updates—ranging from gate numbers to estimated departure times and check-in desk details. This tool not only assists frequent flyers but also aids those picking up arriving passengers in planning their visits efficiently.

Passengers are encouraged to make use of online check-in services and self-service kiosks available at both terminals. With systems like Tagomat® and Bagomat for quick luggage tagging, Hermes streamlines the entire process, reducing wait times significantly. Document preparation is further modernized with features such as biometric options for expedited clearance via the BorderXpress system.

Upgraded Facilities And Special Considerations

The upgrades underway across Cyprus’ airports extend beyond the check-in counters. Enhanced shopping and dining areas, along with pre-order options for duty-free items, complement the new Express Lane services available at both Departures and Arrivals. These facilities allow passengers to bypass traditional queues and enjoy a more relaxed waiting experience in lounges offering complimentary refreshments.

Special provisions remain in place for travelers with pets, disabilities, or reduced mobility, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive service framework. Moreover, as airport upgrade works continue, on-site signage and regular online updates are crucial for adapting to temporary changes in vehicle access and transport waiting zones.

Through a combination of technological innovation and customer-centric services, Hermes Airports is not only meeting the rigorous demands of increased summer traffic but also setting a new standard for efficiency and traveler satisfaction in the region.

Evel Elects New President As Maria Theocharous Takes Over For 2026–2029 Term

Maria Theocharous has been elected president of the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Evel), taking over from Yiannis Tsouloftas for a three-year term covering 2026–2029. Theocharous previously served as the chamber’s vice-president for tourism.

The leadership transition marks a new chapter for one of Cyprus’ main regional business organisations, with the new board set to represent the district’s key economic sectors.

New Leadership Emphasises Cooperation

The chamber’s annual meeting brought together government, business and local authority representatives, including Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister Michael Damianos, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) president Stavros Stavrou, Limassol district local government organisation president Yiannis Tsouloftas and Limassol mayor Yiannis Armeftis.

Speakers highlighted the importance of closer cooperation between public authorities and businesses in supporting Limassol’s economic development.

Representatives of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) also congratulated Theocharous on her election and thanked the outgoing president for his cooperation. The CSC described Evel as a longstanding partner, noting the chamber’s contribution to Limassol’s business development over more than six decades.

Tsouloftas Reviews Six Years As President

In his final address, Tsouloftas reviewed the chamber’s work between 2020 and 2026, highlighting its advocacy for major infrastructure projects and efforts to address development challenges across the district.

He also outlined initiatives to remove obstacles facing local businesses, accelerate development plans and improve the conditions for economic activity.

Tsouloftas will remain involved as immediate past president, providing continuity during the transition.

New Board Covers Key Business Sectors

The new board includes representatives responsible for the chamber’s main portfolios:

  • Ilikos Charalambous, vice-president for commerce
  • Vasos Demetriades, vice-president for industry
  • Christos Nicolaou, vice-president for services
  • Nicolas Agiomamitis, vice-president for tourism
  • Ilias Theodorou, vice-president for finance
  • Demosthenes Mavrellis, vice-president for innovation and technology
  • Ilias Neocleous, honorary secretary

Other board members are Minos Agathocleous, Marios Antoniou, George Demetriou, Anastasios Kounoudis, Marios Constantinou, Xanthos Nemptsas, Antonis Pappas, Charalambos Pattichis, Chrysis Petousis, Farah Shammas, Andreas Tsouloftas and Kyriacos Hadjiathanasiou.

Costas Ioannides, Agathi Katsi, Anna Petraki, Filippos Filis and Tonis Hadjiloucas have been appointed members by distinction. The chamber also highlighted the growing participation of women in business leadership and decision-making.

Chamber Recognises Longstanding Contributions

The annual meeting also recognised businesses and individuals for their contributions, including members who have maintained continuous membership for 50 years.

Tributes were paid to three former contributors to the chamber, Tonis Antoniou, Dimi Mavropoulos and Andreas Laou, in recognition of their service.

Under Theocharous’ leadership, Evel begins its 2026–2029 term with a board covering commerce, industry, services, tourism, finance and innovation. Its priorities include continuing to represent Limassol businesses and advocating for the investment and cooperation needed to support the district’s economic growth.

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