RIYADH: Egypt’s aviation sector has risen 36 positions in the Air Transport Infrastructure Index, reaching 27th place globally in 2024, highlighting significant progress in the industry.
A report from the Cabinet’s Media Center emphasizes that the country’s rise from 63rd place in 2015 underscores the nation’s commitment to establishing itself as a global air transport hub and improving its aviation infrastructure.
The analysis, released on Dec. 7, International Civil Aviation Day, stated that Egypt’s Civil Aviation Ministry had earmarked 31.3 billion Egyptian pounds ($626.7 million) for projects aimed at enhancing airport facilities, modernizing navigation systems, and strengthening safety measures, with completion targeted by June 2027.
“The Egyptian state is committed to enhancing the air transport system, a vital sector that supports the national economy,” the Cabinet said in a statement.
The report highlighted improvements in Egypt’s aviation sector. In the Air Transport Services Efficiency Index, Egypt rose to 23rd in 2024, compared to 40th in 2019. Similarly, the country advanced to 31st in the Airport Connectivity Index in 2024, up from 38th in 2019.
Since 2014, Egypt has increased its airport capacity by 28.5 percent, accommodating 66.2 million passengers in 2023, up from 51.5 million. The addition of four new travel facilities has further bolstered this growth.
Sphinx International Airport has a capacity of 900 passengers per hour, while Berenice International Airport can handle 600 passengers per hour. Both Bardawil and Capital International Airports accommodate 300 passengers per hour.
Several key projects are transforming Egypt’s aviation landscape. At Cairo International Airport, the baggage handling capacity was increased from 4,800 to 12,000 bags per hour.
Borg El Arab Airport saw the opening of a new terminal, expanding its capacity from 1.2 million to 6 million passengers annually. Sharm El Sheikh Airport’s capacity was also increased to 10 million passengers annually.
Additionally, radar systems now cover 83 percent of Egypt’s airspace, with investments totaling €206.6 million.
As part of its strategy to boost operational efficiency, Egypt began transferring the management of its airports to the private sector in March.
Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Abbas Helmy announced plans to issue an international tender for operating major airports, including Cairo International Airport, marking a broader effort to enhance private sector involvement in logistics and transportation assets.
Egypt’s aviation development plan reflects a strategic vision to improve infrastructure, strengthen its global air transport network, and support economic growth.
