The so-called "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC), an internationally unrecognised but de facto state on the island of Cyprus backed by Turkey will allow Russian airlines to operate direct flights to Ercan Airport starting on 15 November, the Milliyet daily has reported.

Whilst it is unconfirmed the first flight is scheduled to coincide with the 39th anniversary of the TRNC's unrecognised declaration of independence from Cyprus. On the same day, a new airport terminal and runway will open. As a mark of political support, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to travel on the first direct flight from Russia to Ercan. It is not yet clear which airline will operate the service. A formal announcement is expected in the following few days.

At present, given the TRNC is only recognised by Ankara, the only direct flights to/from the region operate to/from Turkey. Russia has not, so far, signalled its intention to recognise the TRNC as UN Security Council Resolution 541/1983 explicitly called the TRNC's declaration of independence illegal and urged all UN Member States not to recognise the self-declared polity.

https://mfa.gov.ct.tr