Cyprus Flights Disrupted After Drone Strike Near RAF Base
Air travel to Cyprus faced sudden disruption this week after Paphos Airport was briefly evacuated following a drone strike near the RAF base at Akrotiri. Airlines cancelled dozens of flights linking the island with the UK, leaving many journeys interrupted. Airport operator Hermes confirmed that more than 60 flights across Paphos and Larnaca were cancelled as precautionary measures were introduced after the incident.
The largest number of cancellations affected Larnaca, where 42 services were suspended, alongside 18 flights connected to Paphos. Although Paphos Airport has since reopened and returned to normal operations, several airlines continue adjusting schedules. easyJet confirmed three return flights between Cyprus and the UK would not operate, advising customers travelling in the coming days to check flight status updates before departure.
British Airways cancelled five Larnaca services, affecting both arrivals and departures, while Wizz Air said operational decisions remain under review as the situation develops. Authorities confirmed no casualties following the drone strike, though families linked to the RAF base are being temporarily relocated. Three British schools on the island have also closed while security measures remain in place around military facilities.
Flights Affected Across Cyprus Airports
Airlines introduced temporary changes following the incident:
- 42 flights cancelled at Larnaca Airport
- 18 flights cancelled at Paphos Airport
- easyJet suspending selected UK return services
- British Airways cancelling five Larnaca flights
- Ongoing schedule reviews by multiple carriers
Holiday areas across Cyprus, including Paphos, Limassol and Ayia Napa, continue operating normally, with hotels, beaches and local transport open to visitors already on the island.
Flight plans were disrupted within hours of the incident, despite airports and tourist areas across Cyprus continuing to operate normally. Some travellers are still facing postponed departures, replacement flights or cancellations while airlines adjust their schedules. Many people now need to confirm departure details shortly before travelling, as flight changes are linked to security developments in nearby regions rather than local airport operations.