A protocol has been signed between the “civil aviation authority” and the “University of Kyrenia” to provide training flights for prospective pilots. The flights, originating from the illegal airport, will take place over the occupied Karpasia peninsula.
According to Kıbrıs Postası, the protocol was signed by the “director” of the “civil aviation authority,” Mustafa Sofi, the “director of air traffic control,” Toycan Özdoğanlar, and the “vice-rector” of the “University of Kyrenia” and head of the “training organisation (School of Pilots),” Prof. Dr. Gökmen Dağlı.
This marks the first time that training flights are being permitted in the occupied territories. Previously, Turkish Cypriots who wished to undergo pilot training had to travel to Turkey. Now, they will be able to train in the occupied areas, and the training will also be available to foreign nationals, according to the report.
The training flights, as per the protocol approved by the “Minister of Public Works and Transport,” Erhan Arıklı, will be conducted with aircraft belonging to the “University of Kyrenia” and will follow a specific route within the “controlled” airspace of the “airport.”
Mr Arıklı welcomed the initiative, emphasising the importance of developing civil aviation in the occupied territories.
Source: CNA
