Egypt seeks to open more air routes in promising African market, says minister

By Mohamed Attia

Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh el Hefny said African airports account for 30% of EgyptAir’s total operating volume, noting that his ministry seeks to achieve its ambitious plan to open more routes in the promising African market.

The minister made the remarks during his visit to Djibouti and Somalia on EgyptAir’s maiden direct flight to the two countries. Hefny was accompanying Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigration Badr Abdel Aati.

The launch of EgyptAir’s newest route to the two sisterly countries Djibouti and Somalia reflects the Egyptian civil aviation sector’s plan to expand cooperation with African countries in various air transport activities, especially as regards training and the exchange of expertise, Hefny said.

He added that his ministry is adopting many initiatives that shall develop the African air transport industry and enhance the efficiency of air navigation; through managing airspace operations and opening new paths to the activation of the African air transport market.

EgyptAir can now reach 26 airports across 24 African countries, the minister said, noting that the number of EgyptAir Africa destinations is expected to rise to 32 airports in 30 nations by 2028.

Meanwhile Somali Ambassador in Cairo Ali Abdi Awaare welcomed Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Ati and Civil Aviation Minister Sameh Hanafi upon their visit to Mogadishu on board of the first flight of EgyptAir.

In a statement after seeing off the Egyptian delegation at Cairo International Airport heading to Mogadishu, he said the visit marks the launch of the first direct EgyptAir airline between Egypt and Somalia.

He said this great achievement crowns the great efforts exerted by both sides and reflects keenness of the Egyptian and Somali leaderships to further bilateral ties in various domains.

He added that launching the direct airline will largely contribute to facilitating trade exchange between the two sides.

He underlined the importance of such strategic step will encourage Egyptian businessmen to visit Somalia and explore investment opportunities.

The ambassador underlined the deeply amicable ties between the two countries, noting that he will do his best during his term in office to boost joint projects.