Court of Appeal rejects passenger's claim against Swissport Cyprus

On September 14, 2026, the Cyprus Court of Appeal upheld a lower court decision, ruling that Swissport Cyprus Ltd is not liable for an injury sustained by a passenger who fell from aircraft stairs at Larnaca Airport. The three-judge panel, consisting of D. Kitsios, M.G. Pikis, and M. Drousiotis, concluded that the claimant failed to provide reliable evidence to prove any act or omission by the company responsible for servicing the aircraft.

In his initial lawsuit, the passenger claimed that Swissport had failed to ensure safety, alleging the stairs were slippery, lighting was poor, and weather conditions were unfavorable. He further invoked the doctrine of 'res ipsa loquitur' to suggest the accident implied inherent negligence. However, the court found the plaintiff's testimony unreliable, while the testimony provided by the company's health and safety officer was deemed credible. Both parties had previously agreed to a damage settlement of 40,000 euros, including interest, provided the company was found fully liable. Because the court dismissed the claim of liability, no compensation was awarded. The case is now considered closed following the dismissal of the appeal.