Russian residents of Northern Cyprus push for direct flights

By Mehmet Kemal Firik

LEFKOSA, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (AA) - Russian citizens in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) are pushing for direct flights between Moscow and the TRNC, according a local leader of Russian-speaking residents.

Many Russian nationals live and work in the TRNC, and so direct flights would be beneficial for trade and tourism, said Marina Kocadal, head of Northern Cyprus Russian Speakers Solidarity Association.

She said direct flights would have a more positive impact than expected.

Mergen Hudeynazarov, a businessman who has carried out trade between the TRNC and Russia for years, said direct flights between the two countries are not only wanted by the Russian side but also by Russian citizens living in the TRNC.

Saying that he has been living in the TRNC for more than two years, Hudeynazarov stressed that direct flights could bring down prices and make travel easier for women and children.

Time is very important in trade, Hudeynazarov said, adding: "Direct flights will provide great convenience for Russian citizens for both tourism and business."

Madina Ozyigit, who has lived in the TRNC for nine years, said they have to take connecting flights as there is no direct service between Russia and Northern Cyprus, and that this makes travel more tiring.

Travelers to the TRNC currently must travel to Türkiye and from there to Northern Cyprus.

Underlining that not only Russia but also citizens of other countries in the region could benefit from direct flights, Ozyigit said that if direct flights start, the family and friends of local Russians could come easily to the island.

*Writing by Gokhan Ergocun from Istanbul