Cyprus Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades highlighted aviation as a public good and a strategic enabler critical to Europe's openness and prosperity during the European Aviation Strategy Summit 2026 in Nicosia. Emphasizing the island nation's reliance on connectivity, Vafeades described it not as a luxury but as an economic necessity and social lifeline, especially for islands and remote regions.

The summit, organised under Cyprus' EU presidency, gathered diverse stakeholders amid geopolitical instability and environmental challenges facing the aviation sector. Vafeades stressed the need for a balance between sustainability, safety, and competitiveness to maintain Europe's global aviation position. The minister also underscored the importance of strengthening links with neighboring regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, and the Western Balkans.

Highlighting technological advances, Vafeades pointed to new generation long-haul aircraft revolutionizing direct long-distance routes while reducing environmental impact and opening connectivity opportunities for regions reliant on major hubs. Despite advancements, regional aviation remains essential for Europe’s territorial cohesion and balanced economic development.