list of airports in Cyprus

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:## Exploring the Airports of Cyprus: Your Gateway to the Island of Aphrodite

Cyprus, the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, is a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, it’s no surprise that many seek to explore this beautiful island. Understanding the airports in Cyprus is the first step to planning a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all airports on the island, covering their locations, services, and what you can expect when you arrive or depart.

#ff6900 Cyprus: A Brief Overview

Before diving into the airports, let’s quickly recap why Cyprus is such a sought-after destination. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus boasts a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. It’s known for its archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Kourion and the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos. Beyond history, the island offers diverse landscapes, from the Troodos Mountains to the golden sands of Ayia Napa.

#ff6900 Main Airports Serving Cyprus

Cyprus has two internationally served commercial airports: Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport. These airports handle the vast majority of passenger traffic to and from the island.

Larnaca International Airport (LCA)

Larnaca International Airport, located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, is the island’s largest and busiest airport. Serving as the primary hub for Cyprus Airways, it connects the island to numerous destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

  • Location: Approximately 4km southwest of Larnaca city center.

  • Terminals: The airport has a single, modern terminal building.

  • Airlines: A wide range of airlines operate at LCA, including Aegean Airlines, easyJet, Emirates, Lufthansa, Ryanair, and Wizz Air.

  • Facilities: Larnaca Airport offers a comprehensive range of facilities, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, car rental services, currency exchange, VIP lounges, and free Wi-Fi.

  • Transportation: Easily accessible by taxi, bus, and car. Rental car options are plentiful.

Paphos International Airport (PFO)

Paphos International Airport is the second-largest airport in Cyprus, primarily serving the Paphos region and the western side of the island. It’s particularly popular with tourists visiting the historical sites and resorts in Paphos.

  • Location: Approximately 12km southeast of Paphos city center.

  • Terminals: PFO has two terminals: the older terminal and a newer, expanded terminal.

  • Airlines: Airlines operating at PFO include Aegean Airlines, easyJet, Eurowings, Ryanair, and TUI Airways.

  • Facilities: Paphos Airport provides essential facilities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental services, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi access. While smaller than Larnaca, it still caters well to international travelers.

  • Transportation: Accessible by taxi, bus, and car. Rental cars are readily available.

#ff6900 Other Airports in Cyprus: A Detailed List

While Larnaca and Paphos are the main international gateways, Cyprus also has several smaller airports and airfields, primarily used for domestic flights, private aviation, and military purposes. Here’s a table detailing these:

Airport Name IATA Code ICAO Code Location Usage
Larnaca International Airport LCA LCLK Larnaca International Commercial
Paphos International Airport PFO LCPG Paphos International Commercial
Ercan International Airport (Lefka) ECN LCEN Lefka (North Cyprus) International (Recognized only by Turkey)
Geçitkale Airport (Lefkoniko) GEC LCGE Lefkoniko (North Cyprus) Military/Civilian (Limited International)
Andreas Papandreou Airfield (West) PFO LCPG Paphos Military/Civilian
Akrotiri RAF Station AKR LCAK Akrotiri (British Sovereign Base Area) Military
Ayia Napa Airport GAP LCNM Ayia Napa Domestic/Private
Polis Airport (Yiallou) PIS LCPV Polis Private
Nicosia Executive Airport NCY LCNL Nicosia Private/Business Aviation
Famagusta Airport (Mağusa) FGA LCFA Famagusta (North Cyprus) Abandoned/Unused

Important Note: Ercan International Airport (ECN) and Geçitkale Airport are located in Northern Cyprus, which is recognized only by Turkey. International flights to and from these airports may not be recognized by all countries.

#ff6900 Navigating Cyprus Airports: Tips for Travelers

  • Arrival: Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, including your passport and visa (if required). Be prepared for passport control and potential security checks.

  • Departure: Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure for international flights, and one and a half hours for domestic flights.

  • Currency: The official currency in the Republic of Cyprus is the Euro (€). Currency exchange facilities are available at both airports.

  • Transportation: Pre-booking airport transfers or rental cars is recommended, especially during peak season.

  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at both Larnaca and Paphos airports.

  • Duty-Free: Take advantage of the duty-free shopping opportunities available at the airports.

#ff6900 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which airport is bigger, Larnaca or Paphos?
Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is significantly larger and handles more passenger traffic than Paphos International Airport (PFO).

2. Is it easy to get a taxi from the airports?
Yes, taxis are readily available outside both Larnaca and Paphos airports.

3. Can I fly directly to Northern Cyprus from many countries?
Direct flights to Ercan Airport (ECN) are primarily from Turkey. Flights from other countries usually involve a connection through Turkey.

4. Do I need to rent a car to explore Cyprus?
While not essential, renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the island, especially the more remote areas. Public transportation is available but can be limited.

5. What is the best airport to fly into if I’m visiting Paphos?
Paphos International Airport (PFO) is the most convenient airport to fly into if your primary destination is Paphos and the surrounding area.

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Enjoy your trip to Cyprus! With a little planning and knowledge of the island’s airports, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

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