Cyprus is not among the countries responsible for air traffic delays in Europe during 2026, the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) said on Wednesday, rejecting reports suggesting severe congestion in Cypriot airspace.
The statement follows reports originating from Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom, which cited Eurocontrol data and referred to significant congestion over both Cyprus and Greece.
According to the DCA, airspace across the Eastern Mediterranean, and particularly the Nicosia Flight Information Region (FIR), has experienced increased traffic volumes this summer as flight routes were redirected due to the broader crisis in the Middle East.
However, the department stressed that higher traffic volumes should not be confused with air traffic control delays.
Cyprus not among delay hotspots
Citing Eurocontrol network performance data, the DCA said France and Greece are currently the principal contributors to en-route air traffic flow management delays in Europe, accounting for more than 60% of the total this summer.
The department added that Cyprus does not feature among the delay "hotspots" identified in Eurocontrol's weekly reports.
It also noted that the capacity and staffing pressures highlighted in recent media reports relate to air traffic control facilities in Greece rather than Cyprus.
Record traffic handled safely
According to the DCA, Cyprus' air traffic control units, including the Area Control Centre and the control towers at Larnaca and Paphos airports, continue to manage the increased volume of flights safely and effectively.
The department said the surge in traffic has resulted in historic records for flight movements through the Nicosia FIR.
It attributed the successful handling of the additional traffic to the efforts of personnel, the reliability of infrastructure and continued investment in technology and operational procedures.
Strategic role in the Eastern Mediterranean
The DCA said the increase in air traffic underlines Cyprus' importance as a stable and reliable aviation hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.
"Cyprus is not part of the problem of European delays. On the contrary, in 2026 it is part of the solution," the department said.
The authority added that it will continue working closely with Eurocontrol, international aviation organisations and regional partners to maintain high standards of safety, efficiency and service quality.
Source: CNA
