By Mohamed Attia
Egypt’s national carrier, EgyptAir, will host the prestigious 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in May 2026, an announcement lauded by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as a significant recognition of the development of Egyptian airports and their robust infrastructure.
This selection, to be held under the auspices of EgyptAir Ground Services, culminates the country’s extensive efforts to modernise its infrastructure and logistics services, placing its facilities among the largest and most advanced in Africa.
The significance of this global event was underscored during a meeting where Mohamed Lotfy, IATA Regional Director for North Africa and the Levant, congratulated Pilot Ahmed Adel, Chairman and Executive Managing Director of EgyptAir Holding Company, stressing that the choice of Cairo reflects the great confidence
IATA places in EgyptAir and its ground services, affirming Egypt’s vital role in the civil aviation industry regionally and internationally.
The meeting was also attended by Laetitia Slottved, Head of Events and Conferences at CP&S Events, and Khaled Atwa, Chairman of EgyptAir Ground Services.
Pilot Ahmed Adel expressed immense pride in Egypt’s successful bid, viewing the hosting of this event as a reflection of its presence on the map of major international events and a valuable opportunity to highlight the significant development witnessed by Egyptian airports and the infrastructure supporting the air transport industry.
He specifically congratulated the staff of EgyptAir Ground Services on this remarkable achievement, which showcases the company’s capabilities in providing high-quality ground services that adhere to the latest international standards.
Pilot Adel affirmed that EgyptAir will spare no effort in organising an exceptional event that presents a distinguished image befitting the civil aviation sector and reflecting Egypt’s civilised image to participants from around the world.
Adel added that hosting the IGHC aligns with the state’s strategy to consolidate Egypt’s position as a regional hub for civil aviation and logistics services in Africa and the Middle East by opening new horizons for international co-operation and attracting investments.
The IATA Ground Handling Conference is one of the world’s most important annual conferences in the field, typically bringing together more than 1,000 participants, including senior experts and executives from global airlines, ground handlers, airport operators, and suppliers of specialised equipment and technology.
The planned programme is comprehensive, featuring panel discussions led by industry thought leaders, a major trade exhibition showcasing the latest innovations, and specialized workshops to discuss practical solutions to operational challenges, all while offering extensive opportunities for networking and building international partnerships.
