Meteorological Department Employees Oppose Relocation from Larnaca to Nicosia

Employees of the Cyprus Meteorological Department have voiced strong opposition to plans to move the department from Larnaca Airport to a new facility in Athalassa, Nicosia. Meteorologists argue that this relocation could jeopardize flight safety.

The dispute arose after the Ministry of Agriculture decided to relocate the Meteorological Department, which is currently based at Larnaca Airport, to a new building in Athalassa.

The ministry's permanent secretary explained that the decision was made based on a 2007 study by the World Meteorological Organization. The aim is to gradually consolidate all the ministry's departments in buildings within the Athalassa area.

However, the meteorologists disagree, stressing the importance of remaining at Larnaca. They argue that being close to the airport is vital for real-time weather monitoring, which is critical for air traffic safety.

Meanwhile, the head of the Air Traffic Control Department has assured that relocating the Meteorological Department will not affect flight safety. He emphasized that air traffic control relies on real-time weather data from airports, rather than forecasts, and pointed out the difference between weather monitoring and forecasting.

Officials from the Civil Aviation Department also stated they do not foresee any issues with the move.