The president of the Mediterranean Flight Safety Foundation (FSF–Med), Chrysanthos Chatzichrysanthou, clarified the panic caused when a Greek airline flight returned to Athens while en route to Larnaca, stressing that Cyprus airspace never closed and all flight decisions prioritise safety.
No airspace closure
Speaking on the programme “Protoseleido“, Chatzichrysanthou confirmed there was no decision to close the Cypriot airspace. He explained that the final responsibility for any in-flight decision rests with the aircraft captain, who has full authority to act to ensure the safety of the plane, crew, and passengers.
It remains unclear what specifically prompted the captain of this flight to return to Athens. “We do not know whether instructions were given by the airline or if, due to delays or other factors, the captain decided it was safer to return. In any case, we cannot judge the decision, as the captain is responsible for flight safety,” he said.
Regional security context
In response to international impressions following the airline’s statement attributing the return to “closed airspace,” Chatzichrysanthou reassured that delays or cancellations of flights to and from Cyprus are linked to broader security issues in the Eastern Mediterranean, where military operations are ongoing.
He noted similar instances in the past, citing the 1991 Gulf War, when many airlines suspended flights to Cyprus, with Cyprus Airways among the few maintaining connectivity.
Risk assessment and in-flight protocols
Chatzichrysanthou explained that airlines conduct detailed risk assessments before each flight, especially in regions affected by military operations. Based on these evaluations, they decide whether to operate, delay, or cancel flights.
He added that risks, such as drones or missiles in conflict zones, cannot be fully ruled out. “Even under normal conditions, an aircraft in flight may encounter situations affecting safety. That is why pilots assess each situation and take appropriate decisions,” he said.
Airlines continuously monitor developments and can communicate with planes in-flight to provide guidance or adjust routes to avoid potential hazards. He cited Israel as an example, where airspace has repeatedly opened and closed depending on risk assessments.
Impact on tourism
Regarding the potential effects on Cypriot tourism, Chatzichrysanthou said the key factor is the duration of military tensions in the region. If the situation de-escalates within two to three weeks, he expects no major disruption, with flights resuming normally.
However, prolonged tensions could affect tourism, though this outcome is beyond the control of airlines or Cypriot authorities. Despite concerns, he emphasised that Cyprus’ connectivity with the outside world remains largely secure, with daily flights operating and repatriation of Cypriots from the region ongoing.
“This is positive because Cyprus relies on air links to maintain connections with the world. Despite challenges, connectivity remains at a satisfactory level, and we hope no developments will negatively impact it,” he concluded.
Also read: Larnaca flight cancellations hit 45 on Thursday
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