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- EUROCONTROL did not identify Cyprus among its air traffic control delay hotspots.
- The department said air traffic over the Eastern Mediterranean, especially the Nicosia FIR, has increased this summer due to Middle East route diversions.
- EUROCONTROL data show France and Greece account for more than 60% of en-route air traffic flow management delays in Europe this summer.
- Cyprus said it continues to handle record traffic safely and efficiently while investing in modern, resilient air traffic infrastructure.
The Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) has rejected reports suggesting Cyprus is contributing to flight delays across Europe, stressing that the country is not among the air traffic control delay hotspots identified by EUROCONTROL.
The clarification follows reports in Israeli media, citing EUROCONTROL traffic statistics, which referred to congestion in Greek and Cypriot airspace.
Air traffic has increased, but delays have not
The DCA said air traffic over the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly within the Nicosia Flight Information Region (FIR), has increased significantly this summer as flight routes have been diverted because of the wider crisis in the Middle East.
However, it stressed that higher traffic volumes should not be confused with air traffic control delays.
According to EUROCONTROL’s published network performance data, France and Greece account for more than 60% of en-route air traffic flow management delays across the European network this summer.
The department said Cyprus is not listed among the network’s delay hotspots in EUROCONTROL’s weekly reports, adding that the staffing and capacity pressures referred to in the media reports relate to Greece’s air traffic control centre, not Cyprus.
Cyprus handling record traffic safely
The DCA said Cyprus continues to provide a high standard of air traffic control services while safely and efficiently managing record flight volumes.
It noted that geopolitical instability and developments in the Middle East have led to a redistribution of air routes, with Cypriot airspace absorbing additional traffic that would normally pass through other parts of the region.
Despite the increased operational demands, the department said Cyprus has maintained high levels of service, safety and operational consistency.
It added that the performance of the Nicosia Area Control Centre and the control towers at Larnaca and Paphos demonstrates the resilience of the country’s air navigation system, supported by the efforts of personnel and the reliability of its infrastructure.
Investment strengthening air traffic services
The department said Cyprus continues to invest in modern and resilient infrastructure, enabling it to cope successfully with higher traffic volumes.
It said ongoing investment in technology, staffing and operational procedures is delivering tangible results at a time when several European countries are facing capacity and staffing challenges.
Cyprus described as part of the solution
The DCA said the increased traffic over Greece and Cyprus highlights the Republic’s role as a stable and reliable aviation hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.
It added that EUROCONTROL has repeatedly recognised Cyprus’ contribution during periods of regional crisis.
“The picture is clear: Cyprus is not part of Europe’s flight delay problem,” the department said. “On the contrary, in 2026 it is part of the solution, absorbing additional traffic during a period of heightened geopolitical challenges while providing high-quality services that strengthen the resilience of the European aviation network.”
The department said Cyprus will continue working closely with EUROCONTROL, international aviation organisations and regional partners to maintain high standards of safety, efficiency and service quality for airlines and passengers.
Also read: WHO: Extreme heat raises health risks in Cyprus
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