Newsroom
Severe pressure on parking facilities has been reported at Larnaca Airport as passenger traffic surges during the Christmas holiday period, prompting complaints from travelers and drivers.
Airport activity remains particularly high in the days following Christmas, with more than 100 scheduled flights passing through Larnaca in a single day, including dozens of international arrivals and departures. Paphos Airport is also experiencing elevated traffic, though on a smaller scale.
According to figures released by airport operator Hermes Airports, passenger numbers throughout 2025 have consistently exceeded expectations. In fact, traffic recorded during the first eleven months of the year has already surpassed the total passenger volume of 2024 at both Larnaca and Paphos airports. Larnaca alone handled over 9.3 million passengers during that period, while Paphos recorded more than 3.6 million.
This sustained increase has placed significant strain on airport infrastructure, particularly parking facilities at Larnaca Airport. During the holiday rush, parking availability has been severely limited, with demand exceeding capacity. Hermes Airports has acknowledged the issue, attributing it to the seasonal spike in travel associated with Christmas.
Social media posts from members of the public describe chaotic conditions, with drivers reportedly leaving vehicles wherever space is available. Several parking entrances have been temporarily closed after reaching full capacity, leading to delays and frustration for both motorists and passengers. There have also been reports of fines issued by traffic police for illegal parking near the airport.
In response to growing demand, Hermes Airports expanded parking capacity earlier this year by adding 500 new spaces, bringing the total number of available parking spots at Larnaca Airport to approximately 3,500. Despite this increase, the operator is urging travelers to reserve parking in advance through its online booking system, which guarantees a space. Passengers unable to secure a reservation are advised to explore alternative transport or parking options to avoid inconvenience.
The airport operator has emphasized that travelers who pre-book parking will be accommodated accordingly, even during peak travel periods.
