Larnaca hosts 15 evacuation flights to Israel and Jordan
Larnaca on Saturday served as a key evacuation hub for Israelis and Jordanians fleeing regional unrest in the Middle East.
A total of 15 special flights are scheduled to depart Larnaca Airport throughout the day, with the majority headed for Israel and Jordan. The operation is part of an ongoing repatriation effort, authorised under special permits issued by the Israeli authorities, as the country’s airspace remains officially closed due to heightened tensions in the region.
According to information obtained by the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), two of the flights are bound for Tel Aviv, nine for Haifa, three for Aqaba in Jordan, and one for the Jordanian capital, Amman.
The extraordinary air operation comes as Cyprus plays a growing role in the humanitarian corridor facilitating the safe return of foreign nationals to their home countries. Authorities have confirmed that all flights received the necessary clearances under emergency provisions.
In parallel to the airlifts, arrivals and departures by sea also continued, with vessels docking at Larnaca marina. These boats carried Israeli citizens returning home as well as others heading towards third countries where they reside.
The precise number of passengers being repatriated has not been disclosed. However, officials have stressed that all operations are being conducted in coordination with diplomatic missions and under strict security protocols.
Analysts say Cyprus’ proximity to the region, coupled with its neutrality and infrastructure, has made it a crucial transit point for evacuation routes. The island has previously supported similar humanitarian efforts, particularly during crises involving Lebanon and Gaza.
The situation in the Middle East remains tense, with no clear timeline for the reopening of Israeli airspace. As a result, further special flights or maritime evacuations may be planned in the coming days, depending on developments.
Authorities in Larnaca are continuing to monitor the situation closely and say they stand ready to assist as needed.