paphos airport — Paphos International Airport experienced a significant alert earlier today, prompting a total terminal evacuation due to the identification of “hostile targets” in the airspace shared with the British Sovereign Base Area (SBA). Following a few tense hours, authorities have now instructed airport staff to return to their posts and resume normal flight operations.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
The emergency measures were swiftly implemented as security concerns escalated, with the airport’s operations coming to a halt. Residents in surrounding communities, including Timi, Acheleia, and Mandria, were advised to shelter in place while local officials enacted safety protocols for families and schools.
Despite the reopening of the airport, some airlines, including easyJet and members of the Lufthansa Group, have cancelled their flights from the UK, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich for the remainder of the day. The disruptions highlight the ongoing volatility in the region.
Earlier in the day, the SBA Administration expanded its emergency protocols, which included a mandatory evacuation of the Dhekelia Base. The situation intensified when British fighter jets were dispatched from Akrotiri to intercept a reported “live air threat,” further escalating local tensions. Sirens echoed through the area as the Interior Ministry ordered the evacuation of Akrotiri, underscoring the urgent nature of the unfolding events.
In Timi, Deputy Mayor George Polykarpou described the atmosphere as tense, recalling a “difficult hour” as authorities worked to ensure the safe return of pupils from the Regional Primary School to their homes. Parents were understandably anxious as they awaited updates amid the chaos.
As the situation continues to develop, the Ministry of Interior has assured residents that further announcements will follow should the threat level change again. For now, while air travel at Paphos Airport resumes, the nearby communities remain on high alert, following the shelter-in-place orders.
