The upward trend in passenger and aircraft numbers at Ercan Airport, the largest airport on the island of Cyprus, has continued throughout the first nine months of 2024. Data released by T&T Airport Operations reveals a 21.51 percent increase in passenger numbers and a 13.27 percent rise in aircraft arrivals compared to the same period in 2023.

Growth in Passenger Traffic

In the first nine months of 2023, Ercan Airport served 2,859,120 passengers, a figure that rose to 3,474,099 during the same period in 2024. The summer months were particularly strong, with August recording the highest number of passengers. In August 2023, 385,223 passengers traveled through Ercan Airport, whereas in August 2024, this number climbed to 439,950—an increase of 54,727 passengers.

The summer season (May-September) saw a significant rise in passenger traffic, with 1,844,115 passengers in 2023 compared to 2,088,583 in 2024, marking an increase of 244,468 passengers.

Increase in Flights

The increase in passenger numbers was mirrored by a rise in the number of flights. Ercan Airport handled 19,375 aircraft between January and September 2023. This number increased to 21,946 during the same period in 2024, representing a 13.27 percent increase. July was the peak month for flights in both years, with 2,487 aircraft in 2023 and 2,644 aircraft in 2024.

Economic Impact

The growth in passenger and flight numbers at Ercan Airport is contributing positively to the economy of Northern Cyprus. With each increase in passengers, the monetary contributions to the state treasury also rise. T&T Airport Operations, which manages Ercan Airport, pays a turnover share of 56 percent to the state, including VAT, every three months, further boosting the economic benefits derived from the airport's operations.

As Ercan Airport remains a preferred gateway for students and tourists, the continued growth in both passenger and aircraft numbers is expected to maintain its positive impact on the economy of the region.

Source: Kıbrıs Gazetesi