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Cyprus to Allocate €1.2 Billion for Co-Financed Projects Over the Next Three Years

The government of Cyprus has announced plans to allocate €1.2 billion for co-financed projects over the next three years. These projects, supported in collaboration with the European Union, are aimed at promoting economic growth, modernising infrastructure, and fostering sustainability across key sectors of the Cypriot economy.

This funding aligns with Cyprus’ strategic goals, particularly in driving green development, digital transformation, and social welfare improvements. The projects will draw from EU financial instruments such as the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) and the Cohesion Fund to help member states meet their economic and environmental targets.

Distribution of Funds Across Ministries

  1. Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works: A significant portion of the funds will be directed toward improving Cyprus’ infrastructure. Investments will focus on upgrading the road network, enhancing public transportation, and modernising ports and airports to boost trade and connectivity. Additionally, there will be a strong emphasis on sustainable transport solutions, including infrastructure for electric vehicles and the adoption of smart transportation technologies to reduce carbon emissions and enhance efficiency.
  2. Ministry of Energy, Commerce, and Industry: As Cyprus continues its shift towards renewable energy, this ministry will benefit from substantial funds to expand renewable energy capacity, particularly solar and wind projects. The investments will also support energy efficiency initiatives across industries and the public sector, accelerating Cyprus’ decarbonisation efforts. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, Cyprus is working to meet its EU climate commitments and strengthen its energy security.
  3. Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport, and Youth: Co-financed projects will focus on modernising educational infrastructure and expanding digital learning platforms. The aim is to prepare students for the digital economy through improved access to technology and innovative learning tools. Investments will also support research and innovation, fostering a culture of creativity and preparing youth for future economic challenges. In the cultural and sports sectors, funds will be allocated to enhancing facilities and promoting social inclusion through cultural and athletic initiatives.
  4. Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment: A portion of the budget will be dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices, water management, and environmental protection. Projects in this ministry will aim to enhance biodiversity, reduce environmental degradation, and support the country’s transition to greener, more sustainable farming methods.
  5. Ministry of Labour, Welfare, and Social Insurance: This ministry will focus on social welfare improvements, including expanding healthcare services, and social housing, and providing more robust support for vulnerable populations. These projects aim to ensure that economic growth benefits are distributed equitably across society.

Cyprus’ €1.2 billion allocation for co-financed projects highlights the government’s commitment to sustainability, economic growth, and social development. 

Dubai International Airport (DXB) Retains Title As The World’s Busiest International Airport In 2024

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has once again earned the title of the World’s Busiest International Airport with a total of 60.2 million seats in 2024. This follows its similar achievements in 2023 and 2019, underscoring the UAE’s strategic position in global aviation. DXB’s capacity saw a significant 7% year-on-year growth compared to 2023, as well as a 12% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

OAG’s report, which calculates the busiest airports based on international airline capacity, placed DXB in the lead, with Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) coming in second overall when including both domestic and international flights. The rankings highlight DXB’s role in shaping the global aviation sector, aided by the UAE’s efficient infrastructure and positioning as a key air traffic hub.

Top 10 Busiest International Airports In 2024

Following DXB, London Heathrow Airport (LHR) secured the second spot with 48.4 million seats, marking a 4% increase in capacity from 2023. Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) made an impressive leap, moving up four places to claim third with 41.6 million seats, reflecting a 24% capacity growth compared to 2023.

Other notable airports in the top 10 include Singapore Changi (SIN) in fourth place with 41.5 million seats, and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) in fifth with 40 million. Istanbul Airport (IST) showed the most substantial growth in capacity among the top 10, increasing by 20% to reach 38.6 million seats, securing sixth place.

Noteworthy Changes In Rankings

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) followed in seventh place with 38.5 million seats, while Frankfurt Airport (FRA) ranked eighth with 35.7 million. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) had the most significant year-on-year capacity increase in the top 10, up by 40%, although still 23% behind 2019 levels. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) rounded out the top 10 with 32.5 million seats, experiencing a 13% increase from 2023.

Global Overview: Top 10 Busiest Airports In 2024 (Including Both Domestic And International Flights)

The busiest airport globally in 2024 was Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), with 62.7 million seats. It maintained its top position from 2023 and 2019, although capacity was up just 2% year-on-year and slightly down from 2019 by 1%. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) secured third place with 55.2 million seats, a 5% increase from 2023.

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) moved into fifth place, surpassing its pre-pandemic capacity by 18%. Denver International (DEN) saw the highest growth among the top 10, with a remarkable 24% capacity increase, moving it to sixth position.

Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) saw a 29% increase in capacity compared to 2023, largely driven by China’s post-pandemic recovery in air travel, propelling PVG from 15th in 2023 to 9th in 2024.

The rankings of the busiest airports reveal the resilience of global aviation and the recovery of regions like China, while also underscoring the growing importance of airports in the Middle East and North America. With substantial growth expected to continue, these airports will play a pivotal role in the global recovery and expansion of air travel in the coming years.

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