The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is currently not allowed to receive direct international flights as it is not recognised as a separate country, so passengers must fly via Turkey. The EU imposed a trade embargo on the north 15 years ago.

However, this restriction may now be lifted as a 'reward' to Turkey for voting to join the EU in a recent referendum, and for voting with a 65 per cent majority to reunite the island.

Cyprus rejected the UN plan for reunification with a 75 per cent majority in last weekend's referendum, meaning the Turkish North was blocked from joining the EU. 'The majority of Turks in Cyprus wanted to join the EU, but cannot because the Greek side of the island rejected the plan, and as a result the North will be penalised,' said Akin Koc, manager of specialist tour operator Anatolian Sky Holidays, which runs trips to the north.

'The result is that the Turkish side is already getting sympathy from the UN and the EU which I believe could lead to the recognition of Northern Cyprus and I think that very soon we will see flights operating direct from the UK once the embargo is lifted.'

Ryanair extend seat sale to 27September 15/09/2004