paphos airport — paphos airport — Cyprus is examining proposals for a second road access to Paphos International Airport and the Andreas Papandreou airbase following recommendations from the United States, marking a significant shift in prioritising national security over environmental concerns.
The Defence Ministry has begun discussions with relevant authorities after receiving the US proposal, which deems the alternative route crucial for operational adequacy and emergency access to the military facility. A formal proposal is expected to be submitted to the Council of Ministers to advance the necessary procedures.
Paphos airport: Proposed Coastal Route’s Environmental Challenges
The envisioned coastal road would link Paphos International Airport with the tourist area of Paphos-Geroskipou, traversing the mouth of the Ezousas River within the Natura 2000 Special Protection Area that encompasses the estuaries of the Ezousas, Xeros, and Diarizos rivers.
Environmental authorities have long opposed any road construction in this region, citing potential severe impacts on local ecosystems. The latest Special Ecological Assessment Report from June 2023 warned that the coastal road would lead to “serious, negative and irreversible impacts” on various species and habitats protected under EU regulations.
Decades of Environmental Opposition
For over twenty years, the Environmental Authority has consistently rejected road construction proposals, with studies conducted in 2005, 2009, 2016, 2017, 2022, and 2023 all highlighting significant threats to endangered sea turtle species and various wild bird populations. Officials argue that enhancing existing road infrastructure presents a more environmentally sound alternative.
US Military’s Role in Infrastructure Planning
The push for the new road access stems from recommendations by the 435th Contingency Response Squadron of the US Air Force, which is stationed in Germany. After two inspection visits to Cyprus, the unit outlined specific technical and operational proposals as part of an airbase upgrade programme.
Reports indicate that the Andreas Papandreou airbase has begun to serve humanitarian missions, civilian evacuations, and as a transit hub. The US military’s involvement in planning includes runway extensions, hangar construction, and the development of a modern communications centre.
Funding and Strategic Direction
During President Christodoulides’s official visit to Washington on 30 October 2024, US financial support for the infrastructure project was confirmed, with commitments reportedly remaining intact following the recent presidential election.
The Defence Ministry, in coordination with US military experts, is looking to weave this project into a broader dual-use infrastructure strategy that combines military and civilian applications, reflecting a new emphasis on national security in decision-making.
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