Specifically, 8.1 million passengers travelled from and to Larnaca Airport marking an increase of 34 percent compared to 2022, with average load factor of 81 percent. From and to Paphos Airport, 3.6 million passengers travelled, recording an increase of 12 percent compared to 2022, with average load factor of 89 percent. Overall, 52 airlines operated from the two airports, flying to 39 countries and 159 routes.

This significant recovery is attributed to the restoration of connectivity to 2019 levels for traditional markets such as the UK while there was substantial penetration into other markets. For 28 markets which represent 66 percent of total passenger traffic, an increase was recorded compared to 2019, including Poland, Italy, Hungary etc.

During 2023, 18 new destinations were added, strengthening Cyprus's connectivity with countries such as Basil, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Naples etc. During 2023, the average frequency of existing flight scheduled was increased on average by one flight per week, enhancing our efforts to further develop existing markets. A key contribution was made by the incentive scheme for airlines, which we have been implementing for the past 10 years, in which Hermes Airports has invested over 120 million euro, while we focused on targeted digital marketing campaigns for further promotion of Cyprus.

An even more significant achievement for 2023, and an opportunity for this current year, is considered the increase in the winter schedule of the airlines, contributing to establishing Cyprus as a year-round destination while offering a variety of choices for passengers. During winter 2023-2024, there is a 30 percent increase in available airline seats in comparison to the corresponding period of 2019, with average 70 flights per day. During this winter season, 30 airlines will operate flights to 35 countries and 102 destinations from Larnaca and Paphos airports.