By Mohamed Attia
EgyptAir has launched two new routes to Djibouti and Mogadishu as part of its broader strategy to enhance its presence in Africa. This move aligns with the Egyptian government’s aim to strengthen ties within the continent, backed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
In Djibouti, the inaugural flight was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute. The Egyptian delegation, including Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty and Civil Aviation Minister Samih Al-Hifni, was received by Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Yusuf and Infrastructure Minister Hassan Hamad Ibrahim, alongside other officials.
Minister Al-Hefni highlighted that the new routes to Djibouti and Somalia are a testament to EgyptAir’s commitment to expanding its cooperation in aviation across Africa. The airline’s extensive network already covers 26 airports in 24 African countries, with 109 weekly flights. The new routes are expected to further bolster this connectivity.
Al-Hefni noted that African airports currently account for 30% of EgyptAir’s overall operations. The airline plans to expand its network to 32 airports in 30 African countries, increasing its weekly flights to 276 by 2028. This expansion will include additional cargo routes to enhance trade within the continent.
Egypt’s strategic geographic location serves as a vital link between Africa, Asia, and Europe. The government is focused on fostering economic integration, infrastructure development, and new economic partnerships within Africa.
The delegation’s visit also included a trip to Somalia, where they were received by Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Maalim Fiqi and Transport Minister Fardousa Osman. Discussions centered on Somalia’s interest in leveraging Egyptian expertise in training, air cargo, and aviation inspections. Minister Osman expressed her eagerness to strengthen co-operation with Egypt in these critical areas. This expansion by EgyptAir underscores Egypt’s commitment to its African identity and its role in promoting economic and infrastructural development across the continent.
