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New Larnaca International Airport Open

17th November 2009

The old Larnaka airport has served passengers for 35 years, and today it is officially closed. There were mixed reactions to the closure, as it is nice to move on to something bigger and better, however the old airport had a way of growing on some people.

But we must look onwards and upwards and keep the old Larnaka aiport in our memories because today the New Larnaca International airport went fully functional to all airlines. Costing 656.3 million euro, the airport was was inaugurated by President of the Republic of Cyprus Demetris Christofias last week, and officially opened to just two airlines initially. Today it opened fully to all airlines, and initial reports seem to be all positive by both the public and the local media.

The new building which was built by the French firm Bouyges, took just three years to complete. Hermes Airport Ltd’s founder and Chairman Nicolas Shacolas has said that at least five new airlines will start using the airport in the coming weeks. The airport has been made of the highest quality, with modern designs and the latest technological equipment, which were tested for weeks before the official opening. It has a capacity of seven and a half million.

In his inaugration speeach, Presidient Christofias said “The new airport would play a significant role in establishing Cyprus as a key transit point for decades to come. Many of us remember the era when Larnaca International Airport first operated. Just six months after the Turkish invasion, in February 1975, the construction and operation of Larnaca Airport was of immediate and vital importance for our then secluded island. A rushed passenger's building was set up, a wooden control tower and the new airport started operating; even with restricted capabilities to start off with”.

He continued “In the difficult years following the invasion, the tourist industry became one of the biggest crutches for Cyprus’ economy, making an operational airport a must. The need to upgrade the island’s tourist product led to the decision to upgrade Cyprus’ two airports, in Paphos and Larnaca. Today, 35 years after the Turkish invasion, the operation of the new International Larnaca Airport is entering a new phase, making today a historic day”.

President Christofias also referred to the significant role the new building will play when Cyprus takes over EU presidency in 2012, by offering the highest level of service, saying “With its operation, we feel the new Larnaca Airport guarantees Cyprus plays a significant role in the broader Eastern Mediterranean area”.




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