Major Airlines Cancel Cyprus Flights Following Foreign Office Security Alert
EasyJet, TUI, and British Airways have all cancelled flights to Cyprus today, affecting both Paphos and Larnaca airports, after the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) changed its travel advice for the popular holiday destination. The cancellations come amid ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East that have raised security concerns.
Updated Foreign Office Guidance
The new FCDO advice, issued on March 4, 2026, references a confirmed suspected drone impact at RAF Akrotiri on March 2. It states: “British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas should follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration. British nationals in the Republic of Cyprus should follow any instructions from Cypriot local authorities.” The warning highlights that regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption, urging travelers to monitor local advice closely.
TUI Flight Cancellations
TUI has confirmed the cancellation of four flights to Cyprus today. Affected routes include services from Bournemouth, East Midlands, Cardiff, and Wales to Paphos. A TUI spokesperson explained: “In light of the evolving situation in the Middle East, we have taken the decision to cancel the four TUI Airways flights scheduled to travel to Cyprus on March 4. We appreciate this may be disappointing news for those due to travel, and we are truly sorry for the disruption to our customers’ holiday plans. Our customer service teams are fully mobilised, and every affected customer will be contacted directly to discuss the options available to them.”
EasyJet and British Airways Impact
EasyJet has cancelled its London Gatwick flight to Larnaca, along with flights from Bristol, Manchester, and Edinburgh to Paphos. British Airways has also cancelled its London Heathrow flight to Larnaca. These cancellations reflect the broader travel disruption as airlines respond to heightened security alerts.
Political and Military Context
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the situation on social media, stating: “The UK is fully committed to the security of Cyprus and British military personnel based there. We're continuing our defensive operations and I've just spoken with the president of Cyprus to let him know that we are sending helicopters with counter-drone capabilities and HMS Dragon is to be deployed to the region. We will always act in the interest of the UK and our allies.” This follows recent developments where the UK granted permission for the US to use British bases for defensive strikes, amid joint American-Israeli actions against Iran.
The ongoing crisis has led to increased military preparedness, with the UK deploying resources to the area, though not all of its Type 45 air defence destroyers are currently available for active service. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and alternative arrangements as the situation evolves.
