Security Concerns Lead to Flight Suspension from Israel to Paphos

Israel has halted commercial flights to Paphos, Cyprus, citing unspecified security reasons. The disruption, ordered by Shin Bet, primarily affects charter services. Flights to major hub Larnaca remain unaffected, ensuring Israeli tourist arrivals continue. Paphos, smaller and less trafficked, is situated near a military base undergoing U.S. upgrades.

Israel has temporarily halted its commercial flights to Paphos, Cyprus due to undisclosed security concerns, Cypriot officials reported on Monday. The decision, initiated by Israel's domestic security agency Shin Bet, impacts mainly the charter flight traffic to this city located on Cyprus' western coast.

The suspension is unlikely to majorly affect Israeli tourism to Cyprus as the majority of flights from Israel land at Larnaca Airport, the island's principal air terminal. Israel comprises more than 10 percent of tourist arrivals to Cyprus in 2023.

While authorities have not disclosed specific security details prompting the suspension, Cypriot officials suggest it may be a strategic move for logistical efficiency, concentrating Israeli flights to the larger Larnaca Airport.

(With inputs from agencies.)