Security measures implemented at Larnaca Airport since last October, in response to the war in Gaza, have sparked complaints from both drivers and travellers. The closure of the road at the arrivals level, previously used by private vehicles for passenger pick-ups, has been a focal point of contention.
Travellers now find themselves using the departures level road or the airport parking areas for passenger collection, a change that has not been without its challenges. Concerns have been raised regarding inconvenience, particularly during periods of heightened passenger traffic such as the Christmas holidays, during which parking shortages plagued the airport for five consecutive days.
Transportation Minister, Alexis Vafeades told Phieleleftheros “For now, there is no question of ending the measures. When it is decided that they should end, we will see what problems arose, how much people were inconvenienced, and then we will make a decision.” However, he did not rule out the possibility of the measures persisting, citing global airport norms where only taxis and licensed professional vehicles are granted access adjacent to arrivals and departures buildings.
Vafeades acknowledged the parking challenges faced during the Christmas period, revealing ongoing discussions on potential solutions. “There were some parking problems during that period, due to a large number of Cypriot passengers travelling abroad for the holidays. This was a problematic situation, although Hermes had increased parking capacity by 300 cars in the summer and even allocated staff parking space. Now, we are studying how we can address the problem, which is a result of the positive trend of increased passenger traffic at the airport.”
Plans are underway to address the issues before the summer season, with proposals including the creation of additional parking spaces near Larnaca Airport, connected to frequent bus services to facilitate passenger transit.
Another proposal involves linking the expansion of Park and Ride facilities in Larnaca with the airport, offering a blend of intercity and local bus services aimed at reducing congestion and pollution.
Hermes Airports, in response to the situation, assured compliance with Ministry of Transportation guidelines and efforts to minimise inconvenience for travellers.
Additionally, it noted a nominal charge of €1 for the first 20 minutes of parking in areas for those collecting passengers, aimed at facilitating smoother pick-up operations.
