Today is an extremely important day for the Air Traffic Control Services of the Republic of Cyprus, as it marks the start of the Approach Radar Service at Larnaca Airport. The service was launched in the presence of the Director General of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, Mr Stavros Michael. The Minister of Transport, Communications and Works Mr. Yannis Karousos welcomed the event online. George Dritsakos in September 2021, a special cooperation agreement for the provision of expertise and training of Cypriot Air Traffic Controllers by the Civil Aviation Authority of Greece.
The Surveillance Approach Radar Service at Larnaca Airport is expected to significantly improve both the safety and efficiency levels of the services offered by the Control Tower, as aircraft will be monitored by surveillance (radar) systems until landing. The Air Traffic Controller will have a complete and accurate view of traffic in the terminal area of the Airport, an area which extends over a radius of approximately 60 nautical miles around the Airport, thus making the separation of aircraft more efficient and effective, while increasing safety levels. Also, in cases where aircraft for technical or other reasons (e.g. bad weather) require specific guidance, it will now be possible to provide the aircraft with a specific and precise route so that it can safely approach the Airport for landing.
The Service will initially be provided by Cypriot Air Traffic Controllers under the guidance of their Greek instructors until the completion of their on-the-job training.
Addressing the participants online, the Minister of Transport, Communications and Works expressed his satisfaction because another initiative undertaken by the Ministry is being implemented and another issue that has been pending for decades is being resolved, as the service was not offered in our country. With the implementation of this project, Cyprus now ranks on the map of countries that offer this service and, consequently, high quality services to both airlines and passengers.
This development, said Mr. Karousos, is indicative of the continuous improvement and upgrading of the Civil Aviation Department, with the application of modern methods and tools. At the moment, the largest technological upgrade in terms of equipment and services of the Civil Aviation Department is underway with a budget of more than €15 million.
Particularly at this important time, added the Minister, when we have already entered the tourist season and an increase in arrivals and departures is expected, the use of such tools helps to optimally manage air traffic, maintain high levels of safety and reduce delays as much as possible, offering At the same time, thanks are expressed to the staff of the Civil Aviation Authority of Greece for their support and expertise provided for the implementation of the project.
(MCI)
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