Cyprus Hotels Accommodate Disrupted Travelers Amidst Middle East Airspace Closure
In an unexpected turn of events, Cyprus has become an impromptu haven for travelers affected by the sudden closure of air spaces in the Middle East. Hotels across the island were quick to extend hospitality to passengers who found their travel plans abruptly altered on Saturday night.
The disruption began when a Wizz Air flight, bound for Israel, had to make an unscheduled stop at Larnaca airport to refuel before returning to its origin in Luton. This incident set off a chain reaction, with a Royal Jordanian flight from London’s Heathrow to Amman also being diverted to Cyprus. The passengers, caught off-guard by the detour, were hosted by local hotels as they awaited further instructions.
Adding to the list of rerouted flights were two aircraft operated by Middle East Airlines heading to Lebanon. The passengers on these flights similarly found themselves in Cyprus, relying on the hospitality of the local accommodation sector.
The ripple effect of the airspace closure continued into Sunday morning, leading to the cancellation of three flights from Cyprus to Israel. The airlines affected included TUS Air, El Al, and Isr Air. With the situation still unfolding, flights to Lebanon and Jordan were also anticipated to experience disruptions.
The local hotel industry’s response underscores the resilience and adaptability of Cyprus’s tourism sector in managing unforeseen challenges. As airlines and authorities work to navigate the complexities of the airspace closures, the island’s hospitality continues to provide solace to those caught in the midst of travel uncertainties.
