Newsroom
Cyprus is gearing up for a major transformation of its two main airports, as Hermes Airports Chairman Christophe Petit outlines a €170 million overhaul set to modernize and expand Larnaka and Pafos terminals. In an exclusive interview with Kathimerini and KNews, Petit shares his vision for turning Cyprus’ airports into world-class travel hubs and explains why global investors believe in the island’s long-term potential.
From upgraded terminals and faster security checks to more flights and better shopping and dining, the ambitious expansion aims to make flying in and out of Cyprus smoother, more efficient, and more enjoyable. And with passenger traffic breaking records, Hermes Airports says the momentum is only just beginning.
Q: Big changes are coming to Cyprus’ airports. What exactly can travelers expect from Phase B of the upgrades, and how will these improvements transform the flying experience for everyday passengers?
A: We have recently laid the foundation stone for the development works of Phase B at our airports, with construction already in full progress since the end of March. We're modernizing our airports to meet the demand of the future. The upgrades will include expanded spaces, enhanced commercial areas, and improved infrastructure to streamline boarding and disembarkation. It will reduce security wait times, enhance retail and dining options, and offer passengers a more comfortable and contemporary travel experience—comparable to that of leading international airports. This modernization will elevate both airports to world-class standards.
The completion of the works at Larnaka Airport is expected within 30 months, after which the airport will be able to serve 12.4 million passengers annually. In Pafos, the terminal’s capacity will increase by approximately 30%. The construction works are estimated to last 27 months, and once completed, Pafos Airport will be able to handle 5 million passengers per year. The total cost of the Phase 2 projects amounts to €170 million and will be fully funded by Hermes Airports.
We are very excited about the changes ahead and confident that the public will warmly embrace them.
Q: What made Cyprus stand out as a smart investment for Bouygues Bâtiment International over two decades ago—and how has the collaboration between Hermes Airports and the Cypriot state evolved since then?
Back in 2001, when we initially explored the idea of investing, the airport infrastructure was severely outdated. However, we saw strong potential in Cyprus as both a tourism destination and a business hub.
To move forward, we assembled a consortium of local and international shareholders. Bouygues Bâtiment International’s decision to invest in Cyprus’ airport infrastructure was driven by a combination of strategic and operational factors. First and foremost, Cyprus represents a stable EU member state with a strong tourism-driven economy and a clear need for modernized transport infrastructure. The island’s geographic position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa offers significant long-term growth potential for air travel. Also, the Cypriot government’s commitment to a public-private partnership (PPP) model created a clear and attractive investment framework, and that was another factor that paved the way to invest in Cyprus.
Q: Cyprus’ airports have seen a dramatic jump in traffic and connections since Hermes took the reins. What’s been driving this aviation success story, and can it keep soaring?
A: We believe that we have played a catalytic role in the growth of passenger traffic and tourism, and we have steered the improvement of the country’s connectivity the last 15 years. When we took over the management of the airports in 2006, Cyprus was served by 20 airlines flying to 60 destinations. Today, that number has risen to 55 airlines and 158 destinations, a significant footprint on tourism and the broader economy. What’s remarkable is that our growth isn’t dependent on just one or two airlines; it’s driven by a balanced mix of both full-service carriers and low-cost airlines. At the same time, our commitment and strategic focus on strengthening connectivity have allowed us to break into important new markets beyond the traditional ones.
The growth trajectory remains strong. According to the recent Air Connectivity Report by ACI, Cyprus’ airports recorded the highest growth among EU airports in terms of flights and destinations in 2025 compared to 2024. We expect this upward trend to continue, and with the potential accession of Cyprus to the Schengen Area, travel could become even easier.
The Hermes team is working hard to attract new airlines. A significant driver of the success has been the strong relationships we have developed with all the tourism stakeholders, which cultivated a common narrative and joint efforts.
Q: Airports are often seen as gateways, but just how big of a role do they play in fueling Cyprus’ economy—and what has Hermes Airports brought to the table?
Through its partnership with Hermes Airports, the State has gained multiple benefits, including the construction, continuous maintenance, and upgrading of two modern terminal buildings and related infrastructure at our airports. Equally important, the State has received €650 million to date from Hermes Airports as a concession fee.
Today, the direct and indirect jobs generated by the operation of the airports in Larnaka and Pafos amount to approximately 17,000 positions. According to a relevant economic impact study, it is estimated that for every additional route with daily flights added to the flight schedules to and from Cyprus, around 100 new jobs are created.
The annual contribution of airport operations to Cyprus’s GDP is estimated at 4%, making the country’s two airports a significant driving force in supporting national growth and development.
Q: Fast-forward to 2032: What kind of airports, and legacy, do you hope Hermes will leave behind when your journey in Cyprus comes to a close?
A: The concession is set to conclude by the end of 2032. I’ve been involved in this project since 2001, and 2032 is now just seven years away. When the time comes, we will leave Cyprus with two modern airports, well-managed and properly maintained. Construction is just one part of the equation; ongoing upgrades and maintenance are equally vital.
I believe passengers genuinely appreciate the thoughtful design, the abundance of natural light, and even the cultural elements incorporated into the terminals. Since 2001, these airports have played a key role in transforming the country. I hope the people of Cyprus feel proud of what they have, and they absolutely should. I travel extensively, and I can say with confidence that Larnaka and Pafos are among the finest regional airports in Europe.
