Alpha News

Larnaca Taxi Drivers Stage Four-Hour Strike

Published January 13, 2026, 06:30

Taxi drivers in Larnaca staged a four-hour work stoppage today, Tuesday, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, protesting the unregulated operation of ride-hailing apps, particularly at the city's airport, and the lack of substantial action from the relevant authorities despite repeated meetings. The Pan-Cypriot Federation of Urban Taxi Drivers (POAT) describes the issue as one of "professional survival" and demands the immediate disconnection of the signal and activity of apps outside the province of Larnaca at the airport, as well as strict adherence to taxi bases by all applications. If no immediate and substantial action is taken, POAT warns of a 24-hour strike on January 20th and, if no solutions are found, an indefinite strike on January 28th. Drivers insist on the enforcement of the law and the restoration of legality, emphasizing that responsibility for the consequences will lie with those who knew the situation and failed to act. The dispute centers on the unequal competitive position of taxi professionals due to the activities of applications, which, according to drivers, do not comply with the rules and undermine their income. Particular emphasis is placed on the situation at Larnaca Airport, where the presence of applications is considered particularly burdensome. The Licensing Authority expressed surprise and concern over the mobilizations, stating that it is making efforts to mediate and promote changes to the regulatory framework. At the same time, it called on POAT to cancel the measures it has announced, warning of potential negative impacts on the economy, tourism and the international image of Cyprus.