Tag: Aviation

  • Cyprus flights: Flights to Cyprus Disrupted as Greece Closes Airspace Over Technical Issues

    Cyprus flights: Flights to Cyprus Disrupted as Greece Closes Airspace Over Technical Issues

    cyprus flights — cyprus flights — Flights to and from Cyprus were significantly disrupted after Greece closed its airspace on Sunday due to a technical problem with radio frequencies. This closure, described by Greek authorities, had immediate repercussions for numerous flights between the two countries.

    • As of now, passengers planning to travel to or from Cyprus are urged to stay informed about their flight status and the ongoing developments regarding airspace safety.

    Cyprus flights: Immediate Effects on Travel

    The Cypriot transport ministry confirmed that the airspace closure impacted not only direct flights between Cyprus and Greece but also those flights heading to or from Cyprus that were scheduled to fly over Greek airspace. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines for updates before heading to airports.

    Timeline of Events

    The issue began shortly before 10am on Sunday when the Greek civil aviation authority issued a directive to halt all flights in Greek airspace. Reports suggest that the technical difficulties were related to communications between aircraft and control towers, which are crucial for safe air travel.

    Flight Diversions and Limitations

    According to Euronews, as the situation unfolded, aircraft headed for Greek airports were ordered to divert, with many rerouted to neighbouring Turkey. As the afternoon progressed, the Greek civil aviation authority reported that a limited number of flights were starting to take off and land at airports across Greece, but the overall volume of air traffic remained restricted.

    Investigation Underway

    Authorities stated that the problem is currently under investigation in collaboration with external experts. The situation highlights the importance of reliable communication systems in aviation, as even minor technical issues can lead to widespread travel disruptions.

    As of now, passengers planning to travel to or from Cyprus are urged to stay informed about their flight status and the ongoing developments regarding airspace safety.

  • Cyprus Bans Private Drones During Firefighting Operations

    Cyprus Bans Private Drones During Firefighting Operations

    private drones — The use of private drones during firefighting operations is now banned in Cyprus, according to an announcement from the civil aviation department on Wednesday. This decision comes in response to reports of drones flying dangerously close to manned aircraft, jeopardising the safety of firefighting efforts.

    During the summer months, Cyprus frequently faces wildfires, which necessitate the deployment of firefighting aircraft. The civil aviation department emphasised that such close encounters between drones and manned aircraft pose significant risks to both crew and equipment.

    European regulations prohibit the operation of drones near or within areas where emergency response operations are taking place without prior authorisation from relevant authorities. The department reiterated that all drone pilots are required to avoid any risk of collision with manned aircraft. They must be vigilant and terminate their flights immediately if there is any potential danger to aircraft, people, animals, the environment, or property.

    Those who violate this ban will face prosecution, reinforcing the message that safety is paramount during emergency operations. The ban serves to protect both the firefighting personnel and the integrity of the operations being conducted to tackle wildfires.

  • Tragic Paramotor Accident Claims Life of 31-Year-Old Near Larnaca Beach

    Tragic Paramotor Accident Claims Life of 31-Year-Old Near Larnaca Beach

    paramotor accident — A 31-year-old man has died following a paramotor accident near Parasolia beach in Kiti, according to local police reports. The incident occurred at approximately 8:30 am on Thursday morning as Antonis Kourras was flying an engine-powered paraglider.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Kourras was in the air with a friend, who was piloting a separate paramotor, when he reportedly lost control of his aircraft. The circumstances surrounding the crash are currently under investigation. It is understood that Kourras fell onto rocks near the beach, which likely contributed to the fatal outcome.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Emergency services were dispatched to the scene, but upon their arrival, it was confirmed that Kourras had already succumbed to his injuries. The second paramotor pilot, who remains unnamed, was unharmed during the incident.

    Both men had been camping in the Softades area of Kiti prior to their flight, enjoying what should have been a thrilling morning in the sky. The tragic accident has raised concerns among the local community and prompted police officers to conduct preliminary examinations at the site.

    The Aviation Accidents and Incidents Committee has been called in to carry out a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to this tragic event. As Kourras’s family and friends mourn their loss, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with paramotoring, highlighting the need for stringent safety measures in the sport.