A unique destination and transportation: current issues and possible solutions

Purpose The purpose of this study is twofold. First, to consider the ways in which transportation could be more sustainable in North Cyprus, which is mostly dependent on tourism and higher education as a small island destination. Second, to investigate current issues in the transportation sector related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach This study employed a qualitative approach, and a descriptive analysis technique was used to analyse semi-structured interviews, conducted by telephone and face-to-face. To investigate current problems in the North Cyprus transportation sector – one of the most affected by the pandemic – travel agencies were chosen as the study’s population and research participants were selected purposively. Findings The findings indicate that the unpredictability of domestic policies combined with the structural challenges confronting North Cyprus contribute to unsustainable current transportation policies. North Cyprus transport and tourism both suffered significant losses during the pandemic but travel agencies were disproportionately impacted. Our study results showed that exorbitant ticket prices, taxes and transportation costs have emerged as the most significant issues in the transportation sector. Research limitations/implications More efficient and accurate policies that meet the needs of the sector and give opportunity for development are required. This is a critical issue for policymakers to address, as they also represent a significant barrier to the sector's long-term competitiveness. Originality/value To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first qualitative study to look at North Cyprus’ transportation problems from the perspective of travel agencies and the impact of the pandemic. It is thought that this study will contribute to the development of solutions for transportation problems and sustainable practices in small island developing states.