Egypt advances airport modernization drive to boost capacity, efficiency nationwide

CAIRO - 6 April 2026: Egypt is witnessing a major transformation in its aviation sector as a new phase of airport development gets underway, supported by comprehensive infrastructure upgrades and improved operational efficiency.

The expansion has contributed to enhancing service quality and transforming airports into integrated systems that support economic growth and tourism.

Across the country, from Alexandria to Upper Egypt, several flagship projects reflect this development momentum.

At Alexandria International Airport, the country’s first environmentally friendly terminal powered by solar energy has been established. The new 40,000-square-meter facility has increased annual passenger capacity to six million, featuring 40 check-in counters, 20 passport control desks, and a parking facility accommodating more than 1,000 vehicles. Runway upgrades are also expected to reduce flight delays.

Sphinx International Airport has also played a key role in supporting tourism, notably receiving 16 aircraft carrying official delegations during a recent museum opening. Its proximity to major archaeological sites positions it as a strategic hub for both tourism and business travel.

Meanwhile, Capital International Airport is operating in linewith the latest global standards to ease pressure on Cairo International Airport. It handles business aviation with an expandable capacity of 300 passengers per hour and is fully equipped to accommodate large aircraft.

In Upper Egypt, Sohag International Airport underwent a comprehensive upgrade completed in a record seven months, enhancing runways, passenger terminals, and security systems to support regional economic development.

Pilot Wael El-Nashar said the upgrades are part of a national strategy to improve airport efficiency, noting that Egyptian airports recorded an unprecedented 28 million passengers during 2024 and 2025 despite global challenges.

On March 10, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi held a series of meetings with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny to discuss the ongoing modernization of Egypt’s aviation sector.

A subsequent meeting included representatives from the Armed Forces Engineering Authority, the Armed Forces Financial Affairs Authority, and EgyptAir In-Flight Services.

Presidency Spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy stated that the discussions focused on aligning Egyptian airports with the latest international standards and enhancing operational efficiency across the board.

Key infrastructure projects reviewed during the meetings include:

• Cairo International Airport: Progress on Terminal 4, which aims to significantly expand passenger and aircraft capacity.

• Regional Upgrades: Efforts to enhance efficiency at airports in Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria, and El Alamein.

• New Construction: The establishment of a new passenger terminal at the Capital International Airport, as well as the construction of the Saint Catherine and El Arish international airports.