Can You Fly Directly to Northern Cyprus?

🛬 Can You Fly Directly to Northern Cyprus?

Planning a trip to Northern Cyprus? One of the most common questions travelers ask is: "Can I fly directly to Northern Cyprus?" The answer is a bit nuanced, so let’s break it down clearly.

✈️ Ercan International Airport (ECN)

Northern Cyprus is served by Ercan International Airport, located near Nicosia. It’s the main gateway for visitors to the region.

🔔 Important Note:

All flights to and from Ercan arrive from Turkey.There are no direct international flights from outside of Turkey to Ercan due to the region’s political status.

🧭 How It Works

If you're flying from the UK, Germany, or anywhere else, your flight will stop briefly in Turkey — usually in Istanbul, Ankara, or Izmir — before continuing to Ercan.

Flight Example:London → Istanbul → Ercan

🛃 No Turkish Visa Needed for Transit

You don’t need a Turkish visa for this stopover. The flight is considered a domestic transfer, and passengers remain in the transit area or onboard the aircraft.

🗺️ Alternative: Fly to South Cyprus

Many travelers choose to fly into Larnaca or Paphos Airports in the Republic of Cyprus (South Cyprus) and cross the border by car or taxi into Northern Cyprus.

Benefits:

• Direct flights from most European countries

• Often cheaper or more frequent flight options

• Easy border crossing with just a passport (EU, UK, and many other nationals)

🚖 From Larnaca to Northern Cyprus

• Taxi to Kyrenia (Girne): ~90 mins

• Cost: £50–£70 GBP depending on the time and provider

• Shuttle services and car rentals also available

Make sure you cross at an open border checkpoint, such as Metehan (Agios Dometios) or Ledra Palace.

✅ Final Word

While you can’t fly directly into Northern Cyprus without stopping in Turkey, getting there is still very straightforward. Whether you land at Ercan via Turkey or enter via the south, Northern Cyprus remains accessible, affordable, and welcoming.

Need help booking your flights or arranging airport transfers? Visit What’s On in TRNC for trusted local services.