Eastern Paphos authorities demand compensation for airport operations

Local authorities in the eastern Paphos district have renewed their campaign for compensatory benefits to offset the negative impacts of operating Paphos International Airport. The move follows a period of heightened local agitation, which previously surfaced during the pre-election period for the recent legislative elections.

Officials cite three main catalysts for this demand: record passenger traffic observed last year, the ongoing expansion works at the site, and a significant increase in 24-hour activity at the adjacent military air base due to regional conflicts. Residents report persistent noise and environmental disruption affecting living standards day and night. While acknowledging the airport's economic importance, local leaders argue that the social and environmental costs are becoming unsustainable. They point to issues such as pollution, noise, and restricted business development in surrounding areas.

To address these concerns, the authorities plan to present a unified strategy to the five members of the House of Representatives for the Paphos district. By moving away from fragmented, individual requests, they hope to secure a more effective negotiation process. Proposed solutions currently under consideration include implementing a special passenger fee and securing direct funding for impacted local communities.