Cyprus Airports

Flying to North Cyprus

North Cyprus is served by three international airports, offering travellers a wide range of flight options from the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Two airports—Larnaca (LCA) and Paphos (PFO)—are located in the South Cyprus. The third, Ercan International Airport (ECN), is in North Cyprus and connects to global destinations via Turkey.

Travellers arriving from the UK or overseas can choose between:

• Direct flights into Larnaca, followed by a short taxi transfer into North Cyprus.
• Flights via Turkey into Ercan, which delivers you directly into the TRNC.

Paphos Airport is considerably farther from the North and is only advisable when the airfare savings are significant.

Airports Serving North Cyprus

Ercan International Airport (ECN) – North Cyprus

Ercan International Airport, located 13 km east of Nicosia (Lefkoşa) and around 40 km from Kyrenia (Girne), is the primary gateway to North Cyprus. All international flights arrive via Turkey. Although passengers currently disembark in Turkey for transit, regulations are under review and may revert to simple touchdown procedures in the future.

Airlines Serving Ercan

• Turkish Airlines – Flights from 10 UK airports (including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester) and worldwide.
• Pegasus Airlines – From London Stansted and numerous international hubs.

Transport from Ercan

• Kibhas shuttle buses connect the airport to all major cities in North Cyprus.
  More information: http://www.kibhas.org
• Multiple car hire offices operate at the terminal.

Larnaca International Airport (LCA) – South Cyprus

Larnaca is the closest southern airport to North Cyprus and offers extensive global connections, including London, major UK cities, Europe, the Middle East, and the Gulf. It’s approximately 85 km from Kyrenia/Girne, with routes available via the Pyla crossing point or the Nicosia (Agios Dometios/Metehan) border.

Airlines Serving Larnaca (Examples)

• EasyJet
• British Airways
• Cyprus Airways
• Etihad, Emirates (from the Middle East)
• Jet2, Wizz Air, Aegean, TUI, and others

Transport from Larnaca to North Cyprus

• No public transport is available to North Cyprus from Larnaca.
• Pre-booked North Cyprus taxis can meet you on arrival.
• Those hiring a car must ensure cross-border permission.

Paphos Airport (PFO) – South Cyprus

Paphos is much further from the northern border (around 165 km from Kyrenia/Girne). Travel times and taxi fares are higher, though scenic routes exist via the west coast or over the Troodos mountains. Bus services operate from Paphos Airport into the city.

Note: Also spelled “Pafos Airport.”

Shuttle Services (South Cyprus)

Airport shuttle buses operate to major cities from both Larnaca and Paphos:
https://www.kapnosairportshuttle.com/

Airlines Flying to South Cyprus from the UK

• British Airways
• EasyJet
• Ryanair
• Thomas Cook Airlines
• TUI Airways / TUI Fly
• Jet2
• Wizz Air
• Aegean

Airlines from Europe

• TUI Fly
• Various carriers depending on departure country
  Check current listings on Skyscanner.

Important Travel Notes

• Non-EU nationals may require a Schengen visa to enter South Cyprus.
• Always verify flight and border information, as policies can change.

Planning a Property Viewing Trip?

If you’re visiting on an NC Property property viewing trip, we’re happy to recommend the best flight options and arrange airport transfers to ensure a smooth arrival.

Our Recommendation

Why Choose Ercan Airport for Your North Cyprus Journey

When traveling to view or visit properties in North Cyprus, Ercan International Airport offers the most convenient and efficient gateway to this beautiful Mediterranean destination. With excellent connectivity through Turkey, particularly via Istanbul’s world-class airport, your journey to North Cyprus properties becomes a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The Istanbul Airport Advantage

A World-Class Hub

Istanbul Airport stands as one of the world’s most impressive aviation facilities, offering travelers a remarkable transit experience. This architectural marvel provides:

• Modern Infrastructure: State-of-the-art terminal with spacious, light-filled concourses
• Extensive Amenities: Premium shopping, diverse dining options, comfortable lounges, and relaxation areas
• Efficient Connections: Smooth transfer processes with clear signage and helpful staff
• Cultural Experience: A taste of Turkish hospitality and culture during your layover
• Duty-Free Shopping: Excellent selection of international and Turkish products
• Comfortable Facilities: Rest areas, prayer rooms, children’s play zones, and business centers

Perfect Stopover Duration

The connection time in Istanbul is typically brief but comfortable, allowing you to:

• Stretch your legs in spacious terminals
• Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine or international options
• Browse world-class shopping facilities
• Relax in comfortable seating areas with great views
• Experience Turkish hospitality firsthand

Airlines Serving the Route

Several reputable carriers operate flights between major international destinations and Ercan via Istanbul:

Turkish Airlines

The flag carrier offers premium service with:

• Extensive global network connecting to Ercan
• Modern fleet with comfortable seating
• Complimentary meals and beverages
• Award-winning service
• Convenient schedules throughout the day

Pegasus Airlines

An excellent budget-friendly option featuring:

• Competitive fares
• Efficient service
• Modern aircraft
• Frequent departures
• Good on-time performance

SunExpress

Reliable service with:

• Comfortable flights
• Reasonable pricing
• Seasonal schedule optimization
• Direct connections

Journey Benefits for Property Buyers and Visitors

Convenience

• Direct Route: No complicated multi-stop journeys
• Frequent Flights: Multiple daily options from Istanbul
• Short Flight Time: Istanbul to Ercan takes approximately 1.5 hours
• Easy Transfers: Well-coordinated connections at Istanbul Airport

Accessibility

• Central Location: Ercan Airport is ideally positioned for access to major towns and property locations throughout North Cyprus
• Quick Arrivals: Smaller airport means faster immigration and baggage claim
• Nearby Destinations:
  • Nicosia/Lefkoşa: 15-20 minutes
  • Kyrenia/Girne: 30-40 minutes
  • Famagusta/Gazimağusa: 40-50 minutes

Cost-Effectiveness

• Competitive Pricing: Routes via Turkey often offer better value than alternatives
• Package Deals: Many airlines offer attractive round-trip fares
• Budget Options: Mix of premium and low-cost carriers to suit any budget