Concerns Over Cyprus’ Lack of Firefighting Aircraft as Temperatures Rise
As Cyprus faces the onset of higher temperatures, a significant gap in its firefighting capabilities has come to light. Senior forestry department official Kostas Papageorgiou revealed to members of parliament that the island nation is currently without any operational firefighting aircraft. This disclosure, made during a House environment committee meeting, has sparked concern among deputies and the environment commissioner alike.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by Disy MP Prodromos Alambritis who expressed uncertainty about the country’s readiness to combat potential forest fires. “Unfortunately, we currently do not have any firefighting aircraft available in case anything happens. We do not know when we will be ready,” he stated.
Papageorgiou detailed that the eight aircraft designated for the forestry department’s use are undergoing repairs. Of the two privately owned airplanes, one is expected to return from maintenance in Israel by Friday, while the other awaits an engine replacement, a process estimated to take two-and-a-half months. Additionally, he pointed out that the procurement of two airplanes and two helicopters, which the government intends to rent, is still in the tender phase.
Despite the current lack of eight specialized aircraft, Papageorgiou mentioned that the national guard’s aircraft remain at their disposal. He assured that the state’s mechanisms for fire management should be operational by early June. Meanwhile, Andreas Christofi, deputy chief of the fire services, emphasized their readiness to respond to daily emergencies, which include labour accidents, floods, and fires.
In response to these revelations, MPs have decided that Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou will be summoned to brief parliament on the government’s fire management strategies. Akel MP Nikos Kettiros criticized the apparent lack of preparedness, saying, “It appears the planning was not done properly at all.”
The situation has highlighted a critical need for Cyprus to expedite the repair and procurement of its firefighting fleet to ensure readiness as fire risks escalate with the rising temperatures.
