British MP Calls for Direct Flights to Northern Cyprus

British Member of Parliament Ian Duncan Smith has reiterated his call to open direct flights to Northern Cyprus. The Conservative Party MP highlighted that the current situation in Cyprus presents significant challenges for many Turkish Cypriot constituents in the Chingford and Woodford Green areas.

Smith pointed out that Northern Cyprus faces international isolation since the United Kingdom, along with the international community except for Turkey, does not recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as an independent state. This recognition issue results in restrictions on direct flights from other countries.

"At present, Ercan Airport (LCEN) serves as the main transportation hub for Northern Cyprus. While Southern Cyprus benefits from direct flights, Northern Cyprus can only offer flights with one or two stopovers, forcing travelers to make inconvenient intermediate stops. My call for direct flights is in support of my Turkish Cypriot constituents, who regularly visit their properties in Northern Cyprus and care for their elderly relatives," stated the British politician.

Ian Duncan Smith emphasized that despite concerns from several MPs, the UK government's stance on direct flights to Northern Cyprus remains unchanged: there are currently no plans to permit direct flights between the UK and Northern Cyprus.

"The Foreign Office has declared that Ercan Airport is not recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization as an international airport, which prevents the UK government from reaching an air traffic agreement with the Northern Cyprus administration, hindering the resumption of direct flights," explained the politician.

The MP's call was supported by the President of the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce in England, Muhammet Yasarata.

"Ian Duncan Smith is a parliamentarian who ensures that the Turkish Cypriot community is heard and responds sensitively to its needs. I wholeheartedly support his campaign for direct flights to Northern Cyprus. Smith's determination on this issue is crucial for Turkish Cypriots to achieve the position they deserve on the international stage," stated the head of the chamber of commerce.