cyprus tourism — cyprus tourism — Cyprus’ return to normal travel guidance by the US and Britain is a positive development that could help limit the losses recorded so far this tourist season, according to Charis Papacharalambous, president of the Association of Cyprus Travel and Tourism Agents (Actta).
- “On the contrary, three months have already been lost. Within these three months, I believe that, more or less, the image of the country that nothing is going on has been restored,” he explained.
In an interview with the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Papacharalambous highlighted that the downgrade of Cyprus’ travel advisory to level 1 by both nations has played a crucial role in restoring confidence among potential visitors. However, he acknowledged that the effects of earlier warnings had already taken a toll.
“On the contrary, three months have already been lost. Within these three months, I believe that, more or less, the image of the country that nothing is going on has been restored,” he explained.
As for the latest statistics concerning tourist arrivals, Papacharalambous noted a gradual easing of the decline. “As time goes by, the decrease in arrivals is decreasing,” he stated, expressing optimism that this trend would continue through the remainder of the season.
Despite this positive outlook, he cautioned that it is “almost certain” that arrivals will remain lower compared to last year, at least until the summer period begins. This timeframe is critical, as airlines might have the opportunity to adjust their flight schedules in response to changing demand.
“It is not only a matter of demand; it is also a matter of air seats for Cyprus, especially since you cannot visit it in any other way,” he added, reflecting on the complexities involved in tourism recovery.
He further explained that a reduction in available air seats for Cyprus this summer, even by a small percentage, would make it challenging to anticipate a rise in tourist numbers. “Since the air seats are reduced for the summer this year – even by a small percentage – compared to last year, it is difficult for anyone to expect that there will be an increase in arrivals,” Papacharalambous stated.
This reduction in airline capacity is reportedly linked to earlier developments in the region. After events on February 28 in Iran, several airlines made adjustments to their flight planning, affecting services to Cyprus.
“Several companies proceeded to plan their flights, which will be very difficult to diversify in the middle of summer because these planes are employed somewhere else,” he concluded, indicating the challenges of reallocating resources once plans are set.
