Flight Operations Return To Normal
Flight schedules at Paphos International Airport, particularly arrivals from Israel, have returned to normal following recent disruptions linked to regional tensions. Although air traffic has stabilised, the tourism and hospitality sector in the Paphos district continues facing the effects of the recent instability in the Middle East.
Hospitality Sector Under Pressure
Recent hostilities in the region, alongside a drone incident near the British bases in Akrotiri, have significantly affected hotel reservations, according to Thanos Michaelides, President of the Pasyxe Hotel Association.
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Michaelides said the overall situation has improved, but ongoing travel advisories, particularly those issued by the UK Foreign Office, continue influencing visitor sentiment. As a result, travel insurance costs for British tourists have increased, with insurers classifying Cyprus as a higher-risk destination.
Recovery Strategies And Economic Implications
Tourism sector representatives are now focusing on restoring booking momentum ahead of the summer season. Christos Angelides said recovery efforts will require a broader strategy involving online campaigns, cooperation with airlines and engagement with travel agents and influencers. Despite signs of improvement in bookings, visitor arrivals in April declined by 27.6% year-on-year, highlighting the scale of the recent downturn.
While the UK remains Cyprus’ largest tourism market, hotel occupancy rates have fallen from historical levels of 80–85% to between 40% and 60% this season. Industry officials nevertheless expressed cautious optimism, pointing to Cyprus’ long-standing appeal as a tourism destination despite ongoing regional uncertainty.
