Mohamed Attia
Egypt’s regional airports recorded continued growth in passenger traffic during August and September 2026, handling 5.11 million passengers compared with 4.88 million during the same period in 2025, an increase of 235,218 passengers, or 4.8 per cent.
The figures support the North African country’s efforts to strengthen its position as a leading global tourism destination and advance its goal of attracting 30 million tourists through airport infrastructure upgrades, enhanced passenger services and expanded air connectivity with key international markets.
Hurghada International Airport handled approximately 2.13 million passengers during the two-month period, up 6.1 per cent from 2.01 million a year earlier.
Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport recorded 1.64 million passengers, compared with 1.54 million during the same period in 2025, representing growth of 6.2 per cent.Alamein International Airport registered 99,921 passengers, up 29.1 per cent from 77,409 passengers a year earlier.
The increase was supported by growing activity, including the second edition of the Alamein International Air Show (EIAS 2026), reinforcing the airport’s role as a key aviation hub serving Egypt’s North Coast.
Sohag and Assiut airports jointly handled 222,445 passengers, an increase of 18.6 per cent compared with 187,497 passengers during the same period last year, highlighting the growing importance of regional airports in Upper Egypt.
Marsa Matrouh International Airport recorded 69,043 passengers, up 2.3 per cent, while Port Said Airport handled 3,705 passengers, marking a 67 per cent increase.
Alexandria Airport recorded 436,211 passengers, compared with 435,724 during the same period in 2025, reflecting marginal growth of 0.1 per cent.
Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny said the positive results reflect growing demand for travel to Egypt and continued expansion in air traffic.
He stressed that the ministry is advancing airport infrastructure, increasing operational capacity and efficiency, and expanding air connectivity while diversifying destination markets and route networks.
El-Hefny added that the ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, airlines and other stakeholders to open new markets, strengthen connectivity and boost inbound tourism.
Airport development plans also include the wider adoption of digital, technological and biometric solutions, alongside streamlined travel procedures, to enhance the passenger experience and improve airport readiness.
Chairman of the Egyptian Airports Company (EAC), Pilot Wael El-Nashar, said operational plans are tailored to varying levels of demand and the specific roles of individual airports.
He noted that the company continuously monitors passenger volumes and service quality, enhances airport preparedness and manages seasonal traffic peaks to ensure smooth operations and accommodate both current and future growth.
