By Mohamed Attia
Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny reaffirmed Egypt’s continuous support for African nations in developing airport infrastructure, upgrading operational capabilities, and promoting economic growth through civil aviation, tourism, and trade.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Airports Council International (ACI) Africa Regional Headquarters at the Ministry of Civil Aviation in Cairo, El-Hefny confirmed the ministry’s focus on international partnerships to modernise airport operations, adopt advanced technology, and upskill human resources.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci, ACI Africa Secretary General Ali Tounsi, and Ayman Arab, Chairman of the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation (EHCAAN). Also present were key aviation leaders, including Sameh Fawzy, President of the Civil Aviation Authority; Magdy Ishak, Chairman of Cairo Airport Company; Wael El-Nashar, Chairman of the Egyptian Airports Company; and Khaled Al-Alfy, Head of the ACI Africa Sub-Office, along with senior ministry officials.
El-Hefny stated that hosting the regional headquarters in Cairo reflects international trust in Egypt’s aviation expertise, technical infrastructure, and qualified personnel.
He noted that the new office serves as a central hub for knowledge sharing, technical training programmes, and direct engagement with African member states to meet evolving global aviation standards.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci commended Egypt’s partnership, stating that the Cairo headquarters provides a vital platform to extend technical support, operational training, and sustainability frameworks tailored to the needs of African airports.
ACI Africa Secretary General Ali Tounsi added that the Cairo office will enhance regional coordination, ensuring African priorities are represented in global aviation initiatives.
Chairman of EHCAAN Ayman Arab highlighted that hosting the ACI Africa headquarters strengthens Egypt’s international standing while giving local airport operations direct access to world-class technical expertise, training programmes, and international operational benchmarks.
