Larnaca, Cyprus. Hermes Airports marked 20 years since signing its concession agreement with the Republic of Cyprus to manage the international airports of Larnaca and Paphos, citing changes in aviation and tourism over two decades.
Concession agreement and investment
Hermes Airports described the concession as the first and largest public-private partnership in Cyprus, saying it introduced a new era for travel experience and Cypriot tourism and had a broader economic impact. The company said the agreement resulted in two new state-of-the-art airports in Larnaca and Paphos following investments exceeding €640 million.
International recognition
The project received the “Best Transport Project in Europe” award from World Finance in 2013, according to the operator.
Connectivity and passenger traffic
Hermes Airports said Cyprus strengthened international connectivity despite global aviation crises, with links to destinations across Europe and the wider Middle East and improved year-round connectivity supporting tourism and wider economic activity. Passenger traffic through the two airports almost doubled during the concession period, rising from 6.7 million passengers in 2006 to 13.7 million passengers in 2025.
Tourism contribution
The company said the increase in passenger traffic helped establish tourism as a strategic pillar of the Cypriot economy, contributing about 14 per cent of gross domestic product.
Phase Two expansion works
Hermes Airports said Phase Two expansion works are under way at both airports, involving a €170 million investment fully financed by the company to increase capacity and meet long-term needs.
How do you think the Phase Two expansion works will affect travel through Larnaca and Paphos airports?
