In statements to CNA President of FSF-MED Makis Constantinides said that more than thirty small planes landed in Larnaca inbound from Israel and their owners took part in the conference. The goal, he noted, is to promote Cyprus as a safe destination and a great place for pilots and owners of small aircraft to visit with safety.

On his part Eran Ramot Head of Fisher Institute For Air & Space Strategic Studies said that for us in Israel and for Cyprus this seminar is the start of a very interesting beginning. It marks a very beautiful beginning and cooperation for Cyprus Flight Safety Foundation and the Fisher Institute which began last year, he added, explaining that a conference took place in Israel “where we established a new cooperation and a new relationship between Cyprus and Israel”. Replying to a question on security of flights within Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone after the discovery of hydrocarbon resources, he said that that there are thoughts to include such matters as part of the next conference which will take place in Israel, in November.

Senior Vice President IAOPA European Region Martin Robinson said that he has been visiting Cyprus since 2007 in an effort to establish a better working relationship with the civil aviation authority and the airport of Larnaca. “I would say that through dialogue we have improved tremendously, the understanding and the cooperation with all the parties”, he noted. Replying to a question on the safety of flights in Cyprus he expressed the point of view that IAOPA believes safety “should be improved through education rather than more regulation”.

Source: Famagusta Gazette