Cyprus’ air connectivity remains fully safeguarded despite the ongoing revision of European Union rules on state aid in aviation, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works said on Sunday.
The Ministry stressed that Cyprus is actively participating in the consultation process and has submitted a detailed position with six key proposals aimed at protecting the needs of island states.
Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works said the country’s aviation connectivity remains strong and that the Republic is working to ensure the new EU framework continues to support island member states.
Air connectivity as a national priority
The Ministry underlined that Cyprus’ air connectivity is essential, as the country relies exclusively on air transport to connect with the rest of Europe due to its geographic position.
It added that the proposed EU reform is not merely a technical issue for Cyprus, but a matter of economic and social importance affecting tourism, mobility, and trade.
Six proposals to EU framework
Cyprus has submitted six proposals to the European Commission as part of the consultation on revised aviation state aid guidelines.
These include recognising airports as infrastructure of territorial cohesion, allowing targeted incentives for new routes, and introducing fairer comparisons based on passenger-to-population ratios.
The government also calls for extended transitional support until 2035 for island states to adapt to environmental aviation requirements.
Support for island-specific needs
The Ministry argues that airports in Cyprus should be treated as essential national cohesion infrastructure, similar to highways in larger EU countries.
It also seeks flexibility to support ticket subsidies for students, workers, and professionals travelling to and from Europe.
Authorities emphasise that Cyprus should be exempt from geographic comparisons that apply to mainland states with cross-border transport alternatives.
Stronger long-term connectivity framework
The Ministry said the goal is to ensure a modern, fair, and proportionate EU framework that protects air connectivity for island states.
It added that Cyprus submitted its position within the public consultation deadline of 11 June 2026.
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