Expanded aerial fleet strengthens Cyprus fire response capacity

Cyprus is entering the 2026 fire season with its strongest aerial firefighting capacity in recent years, supported by a fleet of 14 aircraft prepared for operations between April and October. The resources include planes and helicopters positioned across key bases, forming a coordinated response system designed to strengthen wildfire preparedness and rapid deployment capabilities.

The current fleet includes a mix of state-owned, leased and international support aircraft, with units stationed at strategic locations such as Paphos, Larnaca and the Akrotiri area. Additional aircraft from partner countries have also been deployed to reinforce capacity, while new state-owned planes are gradually being introduced as part of a long-term plan to modernise the firefighting fleet and reduce reliance on leasing.

Alongside operational readiness, a wider regional initiative is being developed in Cyprus to support coordinated firefighting response across Europe and the Mediterranean. The plan includes improved infrastructure, joint coordination mechanisms and investment in modern aviation assets, aiming to enhance resilience against increasingly challenging wildfire conditions and climate-related risks.