President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stressed the need to continue upgrading airports’ digital infrastructure and expand the use of modern technologies.
This, he said, would simplify travel procedures, improve passenger experience and raise operational efficiency in line with international standards.
The President made these remarks as he met on Thursday with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny, Presidential Adviser for Financial Affairs Ahmed El-Shazly and Chairman of Administrative Control Authority Amr Adel.
The meeting reviewed plans to develop Egyptian airports, expand air transport capacity, upgrade infrastructure and modernise the fleets of national airlines.
President Sisi reviewed progress on Terminal 4 at Cairo International Airport. The project aims to strengthen the airport’s position as a regional and global air transport hub. It will raise its annual passenger capacity to 70 million in the first phase, eventually reaching 110 million after 2041.
The President called for the terminal to be built in line with the latest international standards, using artificial intelligence and digital technologies while ensuring environmental sustainability and efficient use of resources.
Minister El-Hefny said Egypt has invested more than $400 million in developing its airspace. This included upgrading radar systems, satellite networks and communications systems.
He added that the civil aviation sector generated $4.8 billion in revenue during FY 2025/2026, highlighting its role in supporting the country’s foreign currency resources.
The meeting also reviewed upcoming projects to develop Alamein, Sphinx and the New Capital airports. These projects are expected to add around 12 million passengers to Egypt’s annual airport capacity.
El-Hefny said preparations are under way to offer Hurghada Airport as a pilot project for private-sector participation in airport management, operation and development.
He stressed that Egyptian airports remain sovereign state-owned assets and are not for sale. Private-sector participation aims to attract foreign direct investment and benefit from international expertise and modern technologies.
President Sisi called for swift implementation of the directives announced at the Egypt Forum 2026 to develop policies, legislation and incentives governing air transport.
The measures, he said, aim to boost inbound tourism, expand air links with international markets and increase private aviation’s share of tourist transport to 30%.
