By Mohamed Attia
Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El Hefny, has honoured a number of exemplary employees across the aviation sector in a ceremony marking Labour Day, emphasising the ministry’s commitment to recognising dedication and promoting a culture of innovation and teamwork.
The event – dubbed the “Day of Loyalty and Gratitude” – was held inside Hangar 7000 of EgyptAir Maintenance and Engineering Company. It brought together a wide range of aviation leaders, including former Minister of Labour and current head of the General Union for Air Transport Workers, Hassan Shehata; Deputy Minister of Civil Aviation Pilot Montasser Manna; Civil Aviation Authority Chief Pilot Amr El Sharkawy; Chairman of EgyptAir Holding Company Pilot Ahmed Adel; and heads of affiliated companies and unions.
During his remarks, Minister El Hefny expressed his deep appreciation for aviation sector workers, praising their loyalty and dedication. He noted that the sector’s recent achievements are the result of collective efforts by all employees across operational sites.
“We are working hard to create an environment that encourages innovation and development,” he said. “This comes in line with the directives of the political leadership to build a new republic and realise Egypt’s vision for a modern and sustainable future.”
El Hefny also underscored the vital role of labour unions in the industry, saying their contribution extends beyond safeguarding workers’ rights to actively supporting professional standards and discipline in the workplace.
Former Minister Hassan Shehata echoed the sentiment, commending the ministry’s leadership for fostering a positive and productive work culture.
“What we see today in terms of effective organisation and positive energy between leadership and staff reflects a real awareness of the value of motivation and appreciation in the workplace,” Shehata said. “This celebration highlights the depth of partnership between executive leadership and labour unions, reinforcing the worker’s role as a key pillar in this vital sector.”
The celebration featured the distribution of plaques and certificates of appreciation to distinguished employees and union leaders within the civil aviation sector. Many honourees expressed their gratitude, describing the recognition as a powerful motivator and a sign of genuine respect for the human element driving Egypt’s aviation progress.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo of the minister alongside award recipients and aviation leaders. In a symbolic gesture, El Hefny presented the ministry’s shield to Shehata, underscoring the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between the ministry and labour unions.
