The foundation stone was laid by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicos Christodoulides, during a ceremony held at Larnaka International Airport in the presence of government officials, diplomats, church representatives, local government officials, members of the airport community and other distinguished guests.
The ceremony for the laying of the foundation stone, which took place at the construction site, began with a blessing by the Metropolitan of Kition, Mr Nektarios. Following this, President Christodoulides placed a time capsule prepared for the ceremony, which included a letter from the management team of Hermes Airports, a newspaper front page, documents, and other items. Afterward, the President of the Republic laid the foundation stone, followed by Christophe Petit, chairman of the board, Hermes Airports, Iacovos Iacovou, vice chairman of the board, Hermes Airports, and Eleni Kaloyirou, CEO..
While laying the foundation stone, President Christodoulides stated, "The Phase II development works of our airports is a strategically important and significant project that enhances the travel experience and creates new prospects for tourism, trade, and economic development. The improvement of the country’s airports is an investment in Cyprus’ international presence, its development dynamic, and the upgrade of hospitality quality, for our citizens and visitors. This is another concrete action within our overall effort to create a modern, reliable state that can take advantage of opportunities in the international environment and address any challenges."
On his part, Petit, noted, "Today marks a significant milestone for Cyprus’ airports and for the team of Hermes Airports. The laying of the foundation stone for the Phase II works at Larnaca and Paphos airports signals the beginning of a new era of development and progress. Our long-term and productive collaboration with the state, which began in 2006, highlights the power of public-private sector partnerships when based on strategic planning and a long-term vision. Our goal is to develop modern and sustainable airports capable of meeting today’s demands and future challenges."
The agreement for the Phase II development works of the airports, resulting from negotiations between Hermes Airports and the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works, was signed December 2024 and is a testament to a successful partnership that continues to yield tangible results for the economy. Through the strong relationship cultivated since 2006, when Hermes Airports took over the management of the airports through a concession agreement, the two partners confirm that public-private sector collaboration in executing and managing development projects can be successful and beneficial for all.
Works for Phase II began in late March after the completion of the financing process, with the signing of agreements with the banks and the consortium Bouygues Batiment International SAS and Iacovou Brothers (Constructions) Ltd, which has taken on the construction works for Phase II. The total cost of Phase II works is EUR170 million and will be fully covered by Hermes Airports.
At Larnaca Airport, the works will cover a total area of around 20,000 m2, including the creation of a new annex building with departure and arrival gates connected to the main terminal building, additional baggage reclaim belts, a new area for passport and security checks, an expansion of the commercial area, and an increase in aircraft parking spaces.
As for Paphos Airport, works will increase the terminal’s capacity by approximately 30 pecent, significantly improving the passenger experience and the efficiency of checks and procedures. At the same time, the southern parallel taxiway will be extended, enhancing the operational flexibility of the airport.
Upon the completion of Phase II, the capacity of Larnaca Airport will reach 12.4 million passengers per year, while Paphos Airport will reach 5 million passengers. The works are expected to be completed in 30 months at Larnaca Airport and in 27 months at Paphos Airport. Hermes Airports’ investment is creating the airports of the future, ensuring they can effectively meet the needs of the new era, extending beyond the end of the current concession agreement.
