Egypt’s civil aviation minister has called for year-round domestic flights to Marsa Matrouh International Airport, as authorities seek to expand tourism and investment along the country’s northwestern Mediterranean coast.
Minister Sameh El Hefny discussed measures to increase air traffic with Matrouh Governor Mohamed El Zamlout, tourism officials, hotel operators and representatives of travel companies during a visit to the coastal city, the Civil Aviation Ministry said in a statement on Saturday.
The meeting focused on extending domestic air services beyond the summer season and strengthening co-operation between airlines, hotels and tourism companies to attract more visitors to Matrouh and the nearby Siwa Oasis.
“Reviving air traffic to Marsa Matrouh International Airport supports tourism development,” El Hefny said, adding that closer integration between aviation and tourism could open new opportunities for growth.
The minister said a recent rise in charter flights from several European markets reflected growing demand for Egyptian tourist destinations. He urged officials to build on that momentum by improving airport services and operational efficiency.
El Hefny later inspected Marsa Matrouh airport, reviewing passenger terminals, passport control, baggage belts, duty-free shops and aircraft parking areas. He also assessed preparations for the expected increase in traffic during the summer season.
The ministry said airport operations were running smoothly, with officials instructed to continue upgrading facilities, improving services and maintaining high safety and security standards.
El Zamlout said continued coordination with the Civil Aviation Ministry and tourism sector was essential to capitalise on Matrouh and Siwa’s diverse attractions and strengthen the governorate’s position on Egypt’s tourism map.
