By Mohamed Attia
Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh el-Hefny, has inspected Sphinx International Airport to assess its readiness for receiving visitors ahead of the much-anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum. The visit aimed to ensure top service standards, smooth travel procedures, and the highest levels of safety for passengers.
Accompanied by Ayman Arab, chairman of the Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation, and Wael al-Nashar, head of the Egyptian Airports Company, the minister toured key airport facilities, including international and domestic departure and arrival halls, immigration and customs counters, baggage claim areas, banks, lounges, and service zones.
During the inspection, al-Hefny reviewed operations at cafes, duty-free shops, and information centres while also visiting the security control room equipped with a comprehensive surveillance system. He reaffirmed the importance of continuous improvements in airport operations, emphasising passenger comfort and the delivery of high-quality services.
Al-Hefny highlighted the airport’s key role in Egypt’s broader aviation strategy, which focuses on upgrading infrastructure, expanding airport capacity, and improving passenger experience. He stressed that strengthening air links between Egyptian airports would facilitate visitors’ access to the Grand Egyptian Museum.
He also noted that close co-operation between ministries and relevant authorities was ensuring meticulous preparations for hosting official delegations and guests from around the world. The government, he said, was committed to presenting Egypt in a manner befitting its historical significance.
In addition, the minister announced full coordination between EgyptAir and Air Cairo to operate direct flights to Sphinx International Airport, deploying wide-body aircraft to accommodate the expected influx of visitors. He described these efforts as part of Egypt’s wider plan to boost tourism and air travel while supporting economic growth.
Al-Hefny concluded by urging all airport staff to maintain professionalism, efficiency, and hospitality, ensuring an exceptional travel experience that reflects Egypt’s status as a regional and international aviation hub.
