**Title: Ryanair Operations in Cyprus Deemed Safe by Transport Ministry**
The Ministry of Transport in Cyprus has confirmed that inspections conducted by the civil aviation department indicate no safety concerns regarding Ryanair flights operating within the country. This assurance comes in light of a recent incident involving a Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Munich, where a passenger was tragically ejected from the aircraft.
The statement from the transport ministry was prompted by inquiries from Limassol MP Ephraim Christou, who sought clarity on the safety measures in place following the incident that raised alarms among travelers. The former Transport Minister, Alexis Vafeades, provided insights into the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of Ryanair's operations.
Vafeades noted that the civil aviation department has been actively informed about the incident and is closely observing the investigation being conducted by Greek authorities. He emphasized that the department would take necessary actions based on the safety recommendations issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
Over the past two years, the civil aviation department has carried out four inspections of Ryanair aircraft, all of which have not indicated any reasons for imposing restrictions or expressing safety concerns regarding the airline's operations in Cyprus. The specific aircraft involved in the recent incident, registered as 9H-QEU, is owned by Malta Air Ltd, a subsidiary of the Ryanair Group. Malta Air holds an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the civil aviation authority of Malta, which is responsible for its oversight.
Vafeades also highlighted the authority's capability to conduct inspections of foreign air carriers operating in and out of Cyprus. This includes verifying compliance with safety requirements and the ability to impose corrective measures if necessary. He mentioned that the frequency of these inspections is determined through risk assessments, available safety data, and outcomes from previous inspections.
In response to concerns about the potential for increased inspections following the incident, Vafeades stated that additional measures would be considered in collaboration with relevant European aviation bodies. He reassured the public that there is a mechanism in place to ensure that Cyprus is promptly informed of significant safety incidents that occur outside its borders but involve air carriers operating within the Republic.
This mechanism allows for timely evaluation of information related to safety incidents, ensuring that the Republic's supervisory activities are proactive and responsive to emerging safety concerns.
As the investigation into the incident continues, the transport ministry remains committed to ensuring the safety of air travel in Cyprus, emphasizing the importance of rigorous oversight and adherence to international safety standards.