Wego: Cairo Airport reclaims top spot as Africa’s busiest hub
By Mohamed Attia
Egyptian airports are maintaining a high level of operational success, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
Following the strategic directives of Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny and the leadership of Engineer Ayman Arab, Chairman of the Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation, the nation’s aviation hubs have seen a surge in activity.
Last week alone, the network managed nearly 4,000 flights and served over 564,000 passengers, proving that the system remains robust and efficient even during challenging times.
The surge in traffic is particularly visible in Egypt’s premier tourist destinations. Hurghada International Airport handled over 269,000 passengers, while Sharm El Sheikh International Airport recorded more than 192,000 travellers across 1,230 flights.
This momentum extended to Luxor, Alexandria, Assiut, and Sohag, where steady flight schedules and high passenger volumes highlight a diverse demand for both international tourism and domestic travel.
Pilot Wael El-Nashar noted that these indicators reflect an agile operational system capable of adapting to regional changes while continuously improving services for airlines and passengers alike.
Global travel experts are also recognising Egypt’s pivotal role in the current climate. The Wego platform recently identified Egypt as a vital corridor for international flights, serving as a reliable alternative for airlines rerouting to avoid closed airspaces elsewhere in the Middle East.
Major hubs like Cairo International Airport are operating at full capacity to meet this demand. Notably, Cairo International, under the leadership of Magdy Ishaq, has solidified its status as the busiest airport in Africa, reaching a milestone of handling over 111,000 passengers in a single day during February 2026.
While Oxford Economics warns that regional instability puts millions of flights at risk – particularly affecting European markets – Egypt continues to stand out as a stable and attractive destination.
As travellers shift their priorities toward safer and more accessible locations, Egypt’s strategic geographical position and diverse tourism offerings have allowed it to capture a significant share of the market.
By maintaining consistent air traffic and operational excellence, Egypt is successfully enhancing its reputation as a premier regional aviation hub.
