Hermes Airports statement regarding decisions of the European Commission
In relation to the set of decisions published by the European Commission concerning Cyprus’ two airports, Hermes Airports wishes to clarify the following:
The Aerodrome Operations Manual, which has been in force since 2006, has been fully aligned with all submitted observations and amendments, and was formally submitted to the competent authority in September 2024.
With regard to the Rescue and Firefighting services operating within the airports, Hermes Airports notes that, under the Concession Agreement, the State decided to maintain responsibility for these services. Consequently, Hermes Airports, as the airport operator, does not exercise any control over them. The company has, on various occasions, submitted recommendations to the competent Authority and the Grantor’s Representative however, the authority to take decisions on this matter lies exclusively with the State.
Hermes Airports wishes to note that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), as the competent European body responsible for airport certifications, has issued a recommendation indicating that Rescue and Firefighting services operating within an airport should fall under the responsibility of the operator, which is the standard international practice.
Hermes Airports remains in continuous communication with the Grantor’s Representative, and any new developments will be assessed within the established procedural framework.
Finally, Hermes Airports stresses that any publications or references concerning safety issues at Larnaka and Pafos airports are not related to the above matter and do not reflect the reality. All required safety measures and procedures are implemented rigorously, in full accordance with national and international regulatory standards, and the airport operator conducts systematic and stringent inspections to ensure the highest level of operational safety.
