Qatar Airways has decided to include Larnaca airport in its route map, as according to the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce spokesperson Elena Tanou: “Business relations between Cyprus and Qatar are expanding rapidly, many Cypriot firms now have a presence there, many Cypriots work as sub-contractors in the Gulf state. It was almost a must to have direct flights, it’s a very positive development. Qatar Airways must have realised the great potential of Cyprus as a holiday destination as well, that’s probably why they included it in their routes,” she added.

The airline said in a statement: “Larnaca is a destination that Qatar Airways is pleased to be providing regular scheduled service to.” It added: “We are continually striving to provide customers with more options of unique destinations to visit, and the Mediterranean city of Larnaca is a welcomed new addition to the airline’s route map.”

The new route, which will fly four times a week to Larnaca, will be operated by an Airbus A320 configured in a two-class configuration with 12 seats in Business Class and 132 in Economy. Previously, Qatar residents heading to Cyprus had to opt for one of the national carrier’s regional competitors, as both Etihad and Emirates fly directly to Cyprus. Larnaca will be the airline’s first route to Cyprus. In October, Qatar Airways joined the one-world Alliance, becoming the only major Gulf carrier to join a global airline alliance.

Source: InCyprus