State officials responsible for flight delays…literally

GOVERNMENT officials, politicians and other users of Larnaca Airport’s VIP lounge have been warned by the Transport Ministry to show up for flights at least an hour in advance to avoid delaying departures.

While the public are asked to arrive at the airport two hours in advance of a flight, VIPs are required to arrive only an hour before departure.

However it appears some were not even showing up in time for the flight to leave, and were causing flight delays. This prompted the Ministry to send a letter asking all users of the VIP gate to show up on time.

“I wish to inform you that it has been observed recently that those passing late through the official lounge have caused delays to departures, which has a knock-on effect for the remainder of airline programmes,” the letter said.

“We kindly ask all those who enjoy the rights of this lounge to show up at the airport at least 60 minutes before scheduled departure flight.”

The letter was circulated to the Presidential Palace and down the ranks to the Archbishop, House President, former Presidents, party leaders, cabinet ministers and other senior officials and their families.

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