An Israeli hit on Tehran which prong a response by Iran, has led to the emergency diversion of hundreds of passengers on 30 flights intended for Israel, prompting a mobilisation among Cypriot hotels, particularly in Larnaca and Paphos.
Marios Polyviou, President of the Larnaca Hoteliers Association (PASYXΕ), informed Philenews that by Friday morning, approximately 2,400 passengers from 16 diverted flights needed hotel accommodation.
Eight of these flights were redirected to Larnaca Airport and eight to Paphos.
“We were informed by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism that they are seeking hotels, via the ‘Estia’ scheme, for the passengers of these 16 flights. They asked us for our availability,” Polyviou stated.
He added that availability in Larnaca is very limited because Israeli visitors, whose flights were cancelled, have chosen to extend their stays.
“Currently, occupancy rates in Larnaca are nearing 90%. Once people start being directed to hotels, they will fill up,” he noted.
The rapid developments in the Middle East and the closure of airspace have caused concern within the tourism industry, as further escalation could lead to cancellations.
“We are waiting to see how the situation develops. There is no reason to panic at this moment. The next 24 hours will provide a clearer picture. Everything will depend on whether we see an escalation of conflicts,” Polyviou said, highlighting that there are many existing bookings from Israelis for June in Larnaca and other cities.
