Putting Cyprus on the aviation industry map
By Frederic Pralus
The aviation industry in Europe, and globally, is going through a period of realignment. Delays in the delivery of new aircraft and the challenges faced by engine manufacturers have created a new reality: the existing fleet has become more valuable than ever.
Unsurprisingly, these conditions, combined with the rapid growth in passenger numbers -each year since the pandemic breaking the previous year’s record- have significantly increased the demand for aircraft maintenance and repair, as well as for related services.
For countries like Cyprus, this environment presents an opportunity to play a role in a high-value market where their presence has been limited until recently: the market for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.
The Opportunity for Cyprus
Cyprus’s location, close to the markets of Europe, Asia, and Africa, provides a natural advantage. With the right strategy, strengthening infrastructure, shifting education towards technical professions, and simplifying procedures, we can turn this advantage into a sustainable competitive edge.
The recent expansion of Bird Aviation’s facilities at the old Larnaca airport demonstrates our commitment to contributing in this direction. In 2024, we completed the construction of a modern maintenance and repair hangar alongside the existing one, with a total investment exceeding €2.5 million.
As we announced last year, the next phase of expansion is already underway, with the construction of a third hangar progressing rapidly. Once completed, our company will have significantly increased capacity, providing heavy maintenance in four bays, alongside the line maintenance services we provide for aircraft overnighting in Larnaca.
I am convinced that if Cyprus recognizes the benefits the sector offers, both economically and in terms of employment, we can continue on an upward trajectory. At the same time, competitive industries like ours always benefit from support by the relevant authorities, whether through training new personnel or showcasing services at international exhibitions.
Skills and workforce
Modern facilities, like those we are building, are essential but not sufficient for the development of the sector. Adequate skilled personnel is the second pillar. Aircraft maintenance technicians are a key group within the industry. However, data shows that supply does not keep pace with demand:
- A recent CAE study predicts that over 347,000 new aircraft maintenance technicians will be needed in commercial aviation by 2034.
- In Europe, maintenance technicians are among the most in-demand roles across the entire aviation industry (satair.com).
From this perspective, Cyprus must act promptly. At Bird Aviation, we have signed memoranda of cooperation with Cypriot universities and actively participate in Career Days to explain to future employees the benefits and flexibility that this sector offers.
However, change cannot come from private initiative alone. The state’s role is to provide alternatives for young people considering technical careers. Initially, it is also the state’s responsibility to inform parents and students about the real opportunities these professions offer, breaking down the lingering perception that engineering and technical fields are “secondary.”
Aircraft maintenance in Cyprus in the next decade
From our side, we continue to invest with the goal of expanding our capacity and, simultaneously, the overall development of the sector. With an investment plan that includes new facilities, we understand the importance of long-term planning and consistency.
The growth of the aviation industry is not a matter of chance; it is the result of strategy and collective effort. Cyprus has the potential to secure a significant share of this international market, provided it invests consistently in infrastructure, human capital, and outward-looking initiatives.
