Cyprus passenger arrivals fall 16 per cent in April as demand softens

Hermes Airports on Wednesday reported a decline in passenger traffic alongside a stable level of air connectivity across Cyprus.

The most recent figures were included in a statement issued by the airport operator outlining the current state of passenger flows and flight networks, following recent public discussion on tourism trends.

The company said that April 2026 recorded a 16 per cent decrease compared with April 2025, corresponding to approximately 95,000 fewer arriving passengers.

At the same time, aircraft load factors averaged 76 per cent, down from 83 per cent in the same month last year, reflecting softer demand.

Looking at the summer season from April to October, airlines have already implemented adjustments to their flight schedules.

Overall, seat capacity has been reduced by no more than 5 per cent, equivalent to around 600,000 fewer available seats, despite plans for expanded programmes later in September.

As a result, passenger arrivals for the summer period are expected to decline by around 9 per cent, representing roughly 450,000 fewer travellers.

However, the company pointed to encouraging signs in recent weeks, particularly since April 20, when arrival load factors improved to between 80 per cent and 85 per cent.

It also highlighted that key tourism markets such as the United Kingdom and Poland are performing strongly, with load factors exceeding 90 per cent.

Despite the downturn in passenger numbers, Cyprus’ air connectivity remains robust, with 54 airlines connecting the island to 165 destinations across 42 countries.

The company stressed that most airline adjustments involve reductions in frequency rather than route cancellations, helping preserve the breadth of connections.

For May, indicative data shows continued strong activity from major markets, with the United Kingdom averaging around 30 inbound flights per day at a 92 per cent load factor.

At the same time, Israel is recording around 20 daily flights with a 60 per cent load factor, while Poland averages 9 flights per day at 93 per cent.

Meanwhile, Germany contributes approximately 8 daily flights with an 86 per cent load factor, reinforcing the importance of core European markets.

Hermes Airports also stated that targeted promotional campaigns and cooperation with airlines and tour operators are ongoing to stimulate demand.

These efforts aim to encourage inbound tourism while also supporting outbound travel for Cypriot residents, helping balance overall traffic flows.

Regarding operational concerns, the company confirmed that fuel availability is being closely monitored in coordination with airlines, government authorities, and supply chain partners.

It added that fuel stocks remain sufficient and no flight schedules have been affected by fuel-related issues.

Hermes Airports acknowledged that that the current year involves a new set of obstacles, especially following a period of unprecedented growth in tourism and traveler numbers.

“We recognise that this year presents new challenges, following two consecutive record-breaking years for both tourism and passenger traffic,” the company said.

“In this context, it is essential to act in a coordinated, realistic, and decisive manner to reverse the current trend and stimulate demand,” it added.

What is more, the operator underlined that maintaining connectivity, strengthening promotion in key markets, supporting airlines, and extending the tourism season are central priorities.

“With collective effort and timely action, Cyprus can navigate current pressures and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth in the years ahead,” Hermes Airports concluded.