Aegean Airlines has reinstated direct air service between Paphos International Airport in Cyprus and Athens International Airport, marking the return of a route that had been absent for several years. The first flight touched down in the Greek capital at 6:31 local time on Friday morning.
The resumed connection will operate three times per week, offering passengers from western Cyprus improved access to Aegean’s broader network, which includes destinations across Greece and key European markets. The airline expects the route to facilitate travel to and from tourism hubs such as Germany and other countries in Northern Europe.
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In a statement, representatives of Paphos’s local authorities expressed satisfaction with the resumption of flights. They noted that the service would enhance the region’s connectivity and expressed hope that Aegean would expand its operations at Paphos International Airport in the near future.
The development follows a meeting held in February between Aegean executives and local officials, during which they discussed promotional initiatives and cooperation strategies to support the new route and boost the airline’s presence in the area.
Paphos, a coastal city on the southwestern tip of Cyprus, is a popular destination for tourists and a growing hub for business. The direct link to Athens is expected to benefit both leisure travelers and those connecting to long-haul flights via the Greek capital.
Cyprus, an EU member state, has seen a steady increase in air traffic in recent years, driven by tourism and a recovering economy. The resumption of this route aligns with broader trends in European aviation, where carriers are gradually restoring services that were suspended during the pandemic or due to operational adjustments.
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Aegean Airlines, Greece’s largest carrier, has been expanding its network in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Paphos-Athens route is part of a strategy to strengthen regional connectivity and compete with other carriers serving Cyprus, such as Ryanair and Wizz Air.
Passengers can now book tickets for the three weekly flights, which are scheduled to operate year-round. The airline has not yet announced plans to increase frequency, but local officials remain optimistic about further developments.
