The foundation stone for Phase II development works of Larnaka and Pafos airports was laid on Thursday, 5 June 2025, marking the official launch of the works that, upon completion, will take Cyprus’ airports into the future. The foundation stone was laid by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nicos Christodoulides, during a ceremony held at Larnaka International Airport in the presence of government officials, diplomats, Church representatives, local government officials, members of the airport community and other distinguished guests.
The ceremony for the laying of the foundation stone, which took place at the construction site, began with a blessing by the Metropolitan of Kition, Mr. Nektarios. Following this, President Christodoulides placed a time capsule prepared for the ceremony, which included a letter from the management team of Hermes Airports, a newspaper front page, documents, and other items. Afterward, the President of the Republic laid the foundation stone, followed by Mr. Christophe Petit, Chairman of the Board of Hermes Airports, Mr. Iacovos Iacovou, Vice Chairman of the Board of Hermes Airports, and Ms. Eleni Kaloyirou, Chief Executive Officer of Hermes Airports.
While laying the foundation stone, President Nicos Christodoulides stated: "The Phase II development works of our airports is a strategically important and significant project that enhances the travel experience and creates new prospects for tourism, trade, and economic development. The improvement of the country’s airports is an investment in Cyprus’ international presence, its development dynamic, and the upgrade of hospitality quality, for our citizens and visitors. This is another concrete action within our overall effort to create a modern, reliable state that can take advantage of opportunities in the international environment and address any challenges."
On his part, Mr. Christophe Petit, Chairman of the Board of Hermes Airports, noted: "Today marks a significant milestone for Cyprus’ airports and for the team of Hermes Airports. The laying of the foundation stone for the Phase II works at Larnaka and Pafos airports signals the beginning of a new era of development and progress. Our long-term and productive collaboration with the state, which began in 2006, highlights the power of public-private sector partnerships when based on strategic planning and a long-term vision. Our goal is to develop modern and sustainable airports capable of meeting today’s demands and future challenges."
The agreement for the Phase II development works of the airports, resulting from negotiations between Hermes Airports and the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works, was signed last December and is a testament to a successful partnership that continues to yield tangible results for the economy. Through the strong relationship cultivated since 2006, when Hermes Airports took over the management of the airports through a concession agreement, the two partners confirm that public-private sector collaboration in executing and managing development projects can be successful and beneficial for all.
Works for Phase II began in late March after the completion of the financing process, with the signing of agreements with the banks and the consortium Bouygues Batiment International SAS and Iacovou Brothers (Constructions) Ltd, which has taken on the construction works for Phase II. The total cost of Phase II works is 170 million euro and will be fully covered by Hermes Airports.
At Larnaka Airport, the works will cover a total area of around 20,000 square meters, including the creation of a new annex building with departure and arrival gates connected to the main terminal building, additional baggage reclaim belts, a new area for passport and security checks, an expansion of the commercial area, and an increase in aircraft parking spaces.
As for Pafos Airport, works will increase the terminal’s capacity by approximately 30%, significantly improving the passenger experience and the efficiency of checks and procedures. At the same time, the southern parallel taxiway will be extended, enhancing the operational flexibility of the airport.
Upon the completion of Phase II, the capacity of Larnaka Airport will reach 12.4 million passengers per year, while Pafos Airport will reach 5 million passengers. The works are expected to be completed in 30 months at Larnaka Airport and in 27 months at Pafos Airport. Hermes Airports’ investment is creating the airports of the future, ensuring they can effectively meet the needs of the new era, extending beyond the end of the current Concession Agreement.
