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Upgrade Alert: Cyprus Airports’ Capacity Soars to 17M Annually!

Exciting developments are underway as Larnaca and Paphos airports initiate the second phase of their advancement projects. These efforts, spearheaded by Hermes Airports, aim to bolster the combined annual capacity of these gateways to an impressive over 17 million passengers!

This significant infrastructure overhaul involves a €170 million investment, exclusively funded by Hermes Airports. As Maria Kouroupi, Director of Aviation Development and Communication, highlights, this project promises to function as a ‘legacy for future generations,’ with goals extending through to 2040.

What’s in Store for Larnaca Airport?

The redevelopment at Larnaca Airport covers approximately 20,000 square metres over 30 months. A new wing comprising improved departure and arrival gates, additional baggage areas, and expanded commercial zones is anticipated. This will increase the passenger handling capability to 12.4 million people per year.

Enhancements at Paphos Airport

Similarly, Paphos Airport is set to witness 27 months of terminal enhancements—boosting the capacity by around 30 percent and improving both passenger flow and operational effectiveness. The southern parallel taxiway’s extension will further augment flexibility.

Once completed, Paphos will accommodate up to 5 million passengers annually, making it an integral part of Cyprus’ burgeoning travel infrastructure.

Cyprus Reduces Fuel Tax By 8.33 Cents As Prices Continue To Rise

The latest surge in fuel prices is putting unprecedented pressure on consumer purchasing power, forcing government intervention amid volatile global energy markets. Historic highs at the pump have compelled officials to enact further consumption tax cuts in a bid to stabilize household budgets while international trends remain unpredictable.

Government Intervention And Policy Measures

Authorities plan to approve an 8.33 cent per liter reduction in consumption tax on premium unleaded gasoline and diesel, effective from April 2026. This will be the third intervention since 2022, when fuel prices rose following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and after a further adjustment in November 2023.

Historical Context And Comparative Analysis

Fuel prices have increased over recent years. In March 2022, premium unleaded stood at €1.442 per liter and diesel at €1.500. By November 2023, prices rose to €1.550 for gasoline and €1.709 for diesel. As of March 2026, gasoline reached €1.571 per liter and diesel €1.819. Compared with 2023 levels, gasoline prices increased by 1.8 cents per liter, while diesel rose by 10.9 cents.

Global Market Dynamics Impacting Local Prices

International benchmarks continue to influence domestic fuel prices. Brent crude remains above $100 per barrel, while the price of heavy Brent oil has increased by about 58% since February 2026. Market indicators such as the Platts Basis Italy index show increases of 52% for gasoline, 89% for diesel, and 88% for heating oil. These trends affect import costs and pricing across the local market.

Consumer Concerns And The Search For Relief

The planned tax reduction may provide short-term relief for transport fuels. Heating oil prices remain higher, reaching about €1.30 per liter, approximately 6 cents above previous levels. No tax reduction has been announced for heating fuel. According to Konstantinos Karagiorgis, reliance on private vehicles increases the impact of fuel price changes on households, given limited public transport options.

Outlook And Future Considerations

The tax reduction is expected to offset part of the recent increase in fuel costs. Consumer groups, including the Cyprus Consumer Association, have called for similar measures on heating oil. Further developments will depend on global energy prices and geopolitical conditions.

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