In an announcement released recently, IACA referred once again to the sharp increase in airport duties in Cyprus. The Association stressed that one of the reasons that the tourist industry becomes less competitive in relation to other countries is the increase of 70% in the airport duties and the revenues of 33% that the state receives.

The Association welcomed the joint efforts on behalf of Eurocypria, CAIR, CTO and the Ministry to improve the access of tourists in Cyprus, warning, however, that it is time for the government to take measures so as to increase tourist arrivals.

The Association represents 34 airlines and 25% of the total air traffic to Cyprus. IACA Manager Operations, Luc Geens stated that the Association had warned about the impacts if the government wouldn’t support the airlines.

According to IACA, things will improve as soon as the airport duties are reduced, the tourist services are improved and more attractive programs for the airlines are introduced.