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Wizz Air Halts Israel Flights Amid Security Fears: Impact On Cyprus And Beyond

Wizz Air, a prominent low-cost European airline, has temporarily suspended its operations to and from Israel, citing escalating security risks in the region. This decision primarily affects flights between Tel Aviv and various European cities, including those connecting with Cyprus, a key market for the airline. The suspension underscores the volatile security environment in Israel, which has prompted Wizz Air to prioritise passenger safety above all else.

The suspension comes at a critical time for both the airline and travellers. Wizz Air has been steadily expanding its presence in the Eastern Mediterranean, with Israel being one of its key markets. The airline operates multiple routes between Tel Aviv and major European hubs, making this suspension a significant disruption for both business and leisure travellers.

For Cyprus, the impact is particularly notable given the close ties and frequent travel between the two countries. The suspension could lead to reduced connectivity and increased travel costs for passengers, as they may need to seek alternative airlines or routes. Moreover, the suspension may also affect tourism, a key sector for both Israel and Cyprus, especially during the peak travel season.

Wizz Air’s decision reflects the broader challenges airlines face in navigating geopolitical instability. The airline has indicated that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as conditions evolve. Passengers affected by the suspension have been advised to check Wizz Air’s official channels for information on flight resumptions, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements.

This suspension is not unprecedented; airlines often adjust their operations in response to security threats, balancing the need to maintain service with the imperative of ensuring passenger safety. However, the timing and scale of Wizz Air’s decision highlight the growing concerns over security in the region and the potential ripple effects on international travel.

Figures Show Buyers Lean Towards Luxury Apartments In Limassol And Affordable Options In Nicosia

Between January 2019 and August 2024, apartment sales in Nicosia reached 13,415 units, with a total value of €2.1 billion, while Limassol recorded 13,092 apartment sales worth €5.1 billion, according to data from the Department of Lands and Surveys cited by Ask Wire.

The report highlights a clear distinction in buyer preferences: Limassol dominates the high-value luxury apartment market, with a sales volume almost nine times higher than Nicosia. Conversely, Nicosia leads in affordable housing transactions, with twice as many as in Limassol.

In Limassol, 2,174 transactions in the €500,000–€5 million price range accounted for €2.6 billion during this period. For apartments in the €50,000–€200,000 range, Limassol saw 5,451 transactions worth €774 million.

Nicosia, however, excelled in the lower price bracket, with over 11,000 transactions in the €50,000–€200,000 range, emphasising its strong position in the affordable housing sector.

The data also reveals that as property prices rise, demand in Nicosia tends to decline, unlike in Limassol, where interest remains robust in the €201,000–€500,000 price segment.

Market Insights and Opportunities

Ask Wire CEO Pavlos Loizou noted that Limassol’s thriving luxury apartment market presents a significant opportunity for developers. By offering high-quality, diverse options, they can cater to international investors seeking exclusivity and an appealing lifestyle.

In Nicosia, the focus on mid-scale developments designed to meet the needs of local entrepreneurs and households provides a pathway for stable returns, reflecting the city’s strong position in the affordable housing market.

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