By Mohamed Attia
Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh el-Hefny completed a busy series of high-level meetings at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026.
Joined by Captain Ahmed Adel, Chairman of EgyptAir Holding Company, the minister focused on upgrading Egypt’s airline fleet, securing technical support, improving training programmes, and attracting new investments to support tourism, trade, and economic growth under Egypt’s Vision 2030.
During a visit to the Airbus pavilion, el-Hefny and Adel reviewed the latest aircraft technology and inspected cabin designs for the A321XLR, Airbus’s longest-range single-aisle airplane.
The minister also met with Airbus leadership to discuss the delivery schedule for new A350 aircraft.
These long-haul jets will help EgyptAir modernise its fleet, handle growing passenger traffic, and offer more flexible international routes.
Adel confirmed that coordinating closely with Airbus ensures these planes will enter service smoothly, improving travel quality and overall competitiveness.
El-Hefny and Adel also held a key meeting with Boeing executives, including Brendan Nelson, Senior Vice President of Boeing and President of Boeing Global.
Joined by Ayman Thabet, EgyptAir’s Head of Planning, the teams reviewed EgyptAir’s long-term fleet growth plans and current delivery timelines.
They explored different options to balance business growth with fuel efficiency and sustainability. Both sides agreed to set up technical and operational teams to implement these upgrades using global best practices.
To keep the fleet running reliably, the minister met with Rolls-Royce executives to discuss engine support and maintenance.
They reviewed ongoing engine care agreements for leased planes and explored ways to boost technical support.
These efforts directly back EgyptAir’s goal of growing its total fleet to 125 aircraft by 2030/2031, while also cutting down fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
To build local skills, el-Hefny met with Ron Nee, President of the British company Arcon Aviation.
They discussed using modern flight simulators and advanced training systems to train pilots, cabin crews, and technicians at both the EgyptAir Training Academy and the Egyptian Aviation Academy, ensuring high safety standards and updated technical skills.
Finally, the minister held two major economic meetings to improve Egyptian airports and attract foreign business. He met with Ben Ainslie, Acting Trade Commissioner for Africa at the UK Department for Business, Trade and Industry, alongside Egyptian and British diplomats, to discuss direct investment in civil aviation.
He also met with Matthew Butters, Vice President of the British Aviation Group (BAG), and his delegation to bring British expertise into the planning, operation, and management of Egyptian airports.
