Civil aviation minister highlights expansion plans, private sector involvement

By Mohamed Attia

Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El Hefny emphasised the critical need for private sector participation in enhancing the country’s civil aviation sector. Speaking at a recent press conference, El Hefny revealed that major companies have already expressed interest in managing Egyptian airports, with official communications underway.

“The current period is challenging, and it is essential for all stakeholders to come together to support and develop the aviation sector,” El Hefny said. He confirmed that the ministry is studying the needs of each airport to determine where private sector involvement would be most beneficial.

El Hefny outlined plans to expand several key airports, including Cairo, Hurghada, Sphinx, Alamein, and Sharm El Sheikh, to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. Cairo Airport, in particular, will see the construction of a new terminal, while the new terminal at Borg El Arab Airport is set to become fully operational next month. These expansion projects are expected to take between three to five years to complete.

Additionally, the minister announced plans to construct a new airport in Ras El Hikma, a region expected to serve around two million people and host significant investment zones. El Hefny welcomed private investors interested in building new airports, stating that proposals would be evaluated based on their strategic benefits for the country.

On the cargo front, El Hefny shared an ambitious goal to increase Egypt’s air freight capacity to two million tonnes annually, up from the current 300,000 tonnes. He noted that the liberalisation of air freight operations and the opening of Egyptian airspace to cargo flights would significantly boost the country’s cargo capabilities. Talks are also underway to establish a world-class cargo village.

El Hefny concluded by stressing the ministry’s ongoing efforts to address shortcomings, improve services for passengers and tourists, and ensure the best possible experience at Egypt’s airports.