The Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union has secured direct flights between Larnaca and Brussels for one year, enhancing connectivity for travellers. This significant achievement was made possible through a successful Public Service Obligation (PSO) tender, which is a key step in facilitating travel during Cyprus’s leadership role within the EU.
Direct flights: Flights Set to Commence Soon
Scheduled to begin in December 2025, the direct air link is anticipated to serve tens of thousands of passengers, effectively connecting Cyprus with the European Union’s central hub. The Cypriot government has prioritised this initiative, recognising the importance of ease of travel during its upcoming presidency, which officially starts on 1 January 2026.
Details of the Tender Process
The PSO tender, which closed on 30 October 2023, received a single bid from Aegean Airlines. Cypriot officials, working in tandem with the EU Secretariat and the European Commission, ensured the tender process was thorough and compliant with EU regulations. This collaboration underscores the importance of the initiative for both Cyprus and the EU.
Flight Schedule to Support High Visitor Numbers
The agreement, expected to be formalised shortly, outlines the following flight frequencies:
- December 2025: 3 weekly flights
- January – June 2026: 5 weekly flights
- July 2026: 3 weekly flights
- August – November 2026: 2 weekly flights
These flights are designed to accommodate the influx of visitors anticipated during the Cypriot Presidency, which will involve approximately 260 informal meetings and is expected to draw around 28,000 visitors for various high-level gatherings.
Government Commitment to Enhanced Connectivity
Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna and Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades have been instrumental in driving this initiative forward. Their systematic efforts to promote these flights, in collaboration with relevant bodies in Cyprus and Brussels, highlight the government’s commitment to ensuring that the presidency is not only successful but also accessible to international visitors.
As Cyprus prepares to take on this pivotal role within the EU, the establishment of direct flights between Larnaca and Brussels marks a significant milestone in enhancing its connectivity and facilitating important diplomatic engagements.