Israeli Flights Redirected to Larnaca Airport Due to Security Concerns
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Synopsis
Israeli flights scheduled for Paphos have been redirected to Larnaca airport due to security issues. This change affects flights for several days as mandated by Israeli authorities. The Israeli embassy confirmed the situation, emphasizing ongoing collaboration with Cypriot officials.
Key Takeaways
- Israeli flights rerouted to Larnaca.
- Change due to security issues.
- Flights from Tel Aviv and Haifa affected.
- Close monitoring by Israeli embassy.
- Increased security measures in Cyprus.
Nicosia, Jan 27 (NationPress) Israeli flights originally destined for Paphos airport in western Cyprus have been rerouted to Larnaca airport located on the island's southern coast, following a directive from Israeli authorities, as reported by a Cypriot official on Monday.
The alteration in flight paths, which is expected to continue for several days, was implemented after the Israeli government cited various security concerns as the reason for this decision.
Victor Papadopoulos, the Director of the Cyprus President's press office, verified the change in flight destinations, stating, "We were informed that the Israelis decided to operate their flights to and from Larnaca airport instead of Paphos." However, Papadopoulos did not disclose any further details regarding the motivations behind this move.
Israeli media initially reported the change late on Sunday night, emphasizing security concerns as the main factor. As per the state-run Cyprus News Agency, this decision was made by Israel's Shin Bet domestic security agency. The directive is anticipated to remain effective until further notice.
According to winter flight schedules reported by Xinhua news agency, there are approximately 17 flights per week from Tel Aviv and Haifa to Paphos, while around 60 flights operate weekly between Israel and Larnaca.
The Israeli embassy in Nicosia also confirmed the rerouting, mentioning that flights operated by Israeli carriers, including EL AL and Arkia, will temporarily land at Larnaca due to various security issues. The embassy assured that the situation will be closely monitored and evaluated in full cooperation with Cypriot authorities.
Since the escalation of the conflict in Gaza last year, Cypriot authorities have increased security measures at the Israeli embassy in Nicosia and other potential Israeli targets across the island.
