Egypt has unveiled ambitious plans to expand the capacity of Cairo International Airport, increasing its annual passenger handling from 28 million to 40 million. The announcement was made by Civil Aviation Minister Sameh El-Hefny during a recent Senate session, as part of the country’s broader agenda to modernize its aviation infrastructure and enhance its position as a global aviation hub.
El-Hefny outlined a multi-faceted approach to achieving this milestone, focusing on upgrading radar systems and airport facilities to align with international standards. These improvements aim to enhance efficiency, attract higher air traffic volumes, and elevate passenger experiences. “We are committed to adopting global benchmarks to ensure Egypt’s aviation sector is competitive on the world stage,” the Minister stated.
One of the key strategies highlighted was the introduction of charter flight incentives to boost tourism. These programs are expected to generate ripple effects across related sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and tourism infrastructure, creating new job opportunities and further strengthening Egypt’s economy.
The Minister also emphasized the critical role of the aviation industry in national security, pointing to EgyptAir’s contributions during emergencies, including evacuation missions. Despite economic challenges, EgyptAir has maintained profitability and preserved its international reputation, as evidenced by its membership in the Star Alliance.
Since 2015, Egypt has undertaken extensive airport modernization projects under the “New Republic” vision, focusing on integrating sustainable development goals. Civil airports have been recognized as pivotal to Egypt’s economic growth, particularly in supporting the tourism and industrial sectors.
El-Hefny stressed the importance of private sector partnerships in advancing aviation. Citing Marsa Alam Airport as a success story, he revealed plans to expand such collaborations. The ministry has engaged an international consultancy to explore opportunities for private sector involvement, aiming to improve efficiency and service quality while maintaining strong government oversight.
“We will implement private sector integration gradually, ensuring it complements existing management systems and aligns with our vision for a modern aviation sector,” El-Hefny explained.
The announcement reflects Egypt’s ongoing commitment to transforming its aviation infrastructure, positioning the country as a regional leader in air transport while contributing to economic development and global connectivity.