Cyprus Airways has experienced a remarkable surge in passenger numbers during the first half of 2023, showcasing a 300% year-on-year increase. This growth was accompanied by a doubling of operations compared to June of the previous year.

In June 2023, the Cypriot flag carrier transported a total of 59,110 passengers, a substantial rise from the 29,979 passengers carried in June of the preceding year. Additionally, Cyprus Airways operated 478 scheduled flights last month, compared to 280 flights in June 2022, resulting in an impressive 3% improvement in the load factor.

The company also provided insights into its performance compared to June 2019, which serves as a significant benchmark before the onset of the pandemic. Cyprus Airways reported a 44% increase in passengers carried on scheduled services and a 34% rise in the number of operated flights.

Looking at the broader picture, Cyprus Airways carried a total of 260,000 passengers (both scheduled and charter) during the period of January to June 2023, compared to 64,000 passengers in the same period last year, representing an impressive annual increase of over 300%.

However, despite the recent growth, the airline's operations for the first half of 2023 fell short by 35.5% when compared to the record-breaking year of 2019.

Chief Executive of Cyprus Airways, Paul Sies, expressed optimism about the company's operations for the summer season. He stated that all 18 destinations for this summer are fully operational, with over 60 weekly flights available to various locations, ensuring a robust summer schedule for customers.

Sies acknowledged the challenges posed by congested airports and airways and the use of wet leased capacity from a third-party airline, Nordica, to increase the number of flights. He extended his apologies to anyone who experienced delays, acknowledging that this has impacted the punctuality that customers are accustomed to with the airline's own fleet.

To address these challenges and enhance passenger experience, Cyprus Airways has recently added new Airbus A220 aircraft to its fleet. Sies emphasized that these modern aircraft will improve operational efficiency and contribute to the airline's environmental sustainability efforts. The A220 boasts a spacious and quiet cabin, offering the widest economy seats and the largest overhead stowage in its class. Additionally, it exhibits impressive fuel efficiency, with a 25% reduction in fuel burn per seat and a 50% decrease in noise compared to the previous generation of aircraft. Moreover, it surpasses industry standards with approximately 40% fewer NOx emissions.

With the Airbus A220 joining the fleet, Cyprus Airways anticipates better handling of delays and an overall improved travel experience for its passengers. The addition of these state-of-the-art aircraft aligns with the airline's commitment to deliver superior service while reducing its environmental impact.