Larnaca Airport Appeals for Volunteers

Cyprus News 1.6.09

Last week, the Cyprus Mail reported that Hermes Airports – the operating body for Cyprus’ airports – was calling for volunteers to test run the new airport at Larnaca ahead of its opening in November this year. Operational trials will take place in September and October and Hermes is looking for feedback from participants so that they can improve the level of service offered to ‘real’ passengers from November.

Hermes’ invitation went out last week and a spokesman said, “Participants will have the rare opportunity to be the first to experience the new state-of-the-art airport and witness the beginning of a new era for Cyprus’ airports. Make sure you are part of it.”

Last year, there were similar trials before the opening of the newly-upgraded Paphos airport. About 1300 ‘passengers’ were involved and were asked to arrive and depart from the airport, bringing with them their valid passport and hand luggage. They were handed ‘tickets’ for various locations, but of course, didn’t actually get to fly anywhere.

The volunteers only travel as far as the departure gates where they are usually transported back to arrivals, where they then become passengers who have just landed! Participants will then be asked to fill in a short questionnaire about their airport experience. The exercises are all part of the staff training programmes, which Hermes airports hopes will ensure a smooth and well- oiled travel experience for travellers once the airport is fully open.

Potential participants must complete their application forms via the website - www.hermesairports.com

Those volunteers who are selection will received email and ‘phone confirmation and more details will be provided concerning their participation. As a thank you for their participation in the trials, volunteers will receive a commemorative gift and will also be placed into a prize draw where they could win a Volvo C30 valued at €22,400. Additionally there will be airline tickets in the draw from Aegean Airlines, Cyprus Airways and others. Why not give it a go?

Further information about the operational trials at Larnaca International Airport is available on:
Tel. (00357) 7000 8087, weekdays from 09:00 – 18:00.