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Cairo International Airport

One of the most significant aviation hubs in Africa and largest airport of Egypt is Cairo International Airport. It is almost 15 kilometers away from the center of city Cairo and serves as a primary gateway for international and domestic travelers. This airport plays a critical role for providing a smooth experience for tourists, international business clients, and regional travelers. It is also a main hub of EgyptAir.

The Early Days: History of Cairo International Airport

In world war II this airport was an airbase for the United States Air Force which was known as “John Payne Field” in 1942. It served as a strategic military installation during the war but after world war II the US handed over this site to the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority. Then in 1963 this airbase transformed into a city’s primary civil aviation center by replacing the Heliopolis Airport with Cairo International Airport. This translation started the journey of Egypt's major international airport. 

Growth & Expansion from the 1960s to the 1990s

After the 1960 to accommodate the increase of passenger traffic and cargo flights, Cairo International Airport went through many expansions. Although its Terminal 1 went through the expansion many times, its major expansion was the construction of Terminal 2 in 1986. This expansion of Terminal 2 allows it to support  international flights and reduce congestion. Till 1990s this airport marked itself as a transit point by attracting carrier flights and a gateway to Africa and the Middle East.

Why Cairo International Airport Matters

Its geographically position allows Cairo International Airport to serve as a key transit hub as it is located at the crossroads of Africa, Europe and Asia. This strategic location of the airport makes it a vital connection point for the air traffic moving in continents. It's a stopover point for the flights to Europe and the Middle East. Also a stopover point for many carriers like Air France and KLM. 

Modernization and Upgrades in the 21st Century

In early 2000s, Egyptian officials decided to enhance the Cairo International Airport to meet the international standards and smooth experience for passengers. So, the Terminal 3 project started and its opening in 2009 was a great milestone which allows it to handle 11 million of passengers annually. It became a new home for the EgyptAir and Star Alliance member airlines. Terminal 2 went through a renovation process from 2012 to 2015 but this renovation allowed it to meet global benchmarks. 

Terminal Breakdown: Facilities and Services for Every Traveler

• Terminal 1: It is known as an Old Airport which has 12 gates and offers many services, facilities and entertainment for passengers. There are 4 halls in this terminal. The 1st hall is for all domestic and international flights departure, 2nd hall facilitates only Saudi Airlines, 3rd hall is the arrival of most international airlines and 4th hall is dedicated to private jets and operated independently. 
• Terminal 2: This terminal after renovation mostly offers the Gulf, European and East Asia airlines along with modern check-in counters, immigration desks, and duty-free shops. It has 14 gates and is 1.500 sq m that can easily accommodate 30 million passengers annually. In 2017 the first international flight from Terminal 2 was launched by  Saudi Arabian Airline.
• Terminal 3: Terminal 3 which is used predominantly by EgyptAir. This terminal has more advanced features than the other like business lounges, automated baggage handling, and premium passenger amenities. It is the biggest among the others and has 23 gates and 76 immigration counters. It has the multi-story parking storage which is capable of handling more than 3000 cars. 

There is an availability of additional services like wifi, banking services, transportation, medical clinics, and VIP lounges in the airport that ensures that the passengers have everything for a smooth and relaxing experience. 

Airlines and Destinations: Cairo’s Global Connectivity

Cairo International Airport allows you to connect with the world by providing flights to international cities like London, New York, Dubai, Paris, Riyadh, Istanbul, etc. There are almost 65 airlines operating at this  airport to connect you with more than 90 international destinations. EgyptAir, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and British Airways are famous among the others.  Along with international flights, this airport also supports an extensive domestic airline network which allows tourists to have a smooth / luxury experience in Egypt. 

Ground Transportation: Getting To and From the Airport

There are many transportation options available at Cairo International Airport like:

• Airport Shuttle Buses: There are a lot of shuttle and public buses available that link the airport to the city and major hotels. 
• Private Transfer Service: There are a bunch of private transfer services available that you can use for an amazing and hustle free experience. We also offer airport transfer service. Feel free to book and contact us if you have any query. 
• Taxi Service: You can easily get traditional taxi service at the airport but make sure that the driver uses a meter and agrees on a fare beforehand. 
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Cream operate in Cairo on a large scale that allows you to book your ride in an easy and relaxing way without facing any airport hustle.
• Metro Plans: Egyptian government decided to connect the metro with the airport but the project is under execution.

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Cairo Airport Hotels and Accommodation Nearby

You can easily find accommodation options near Cairo International Airport that allows the early flight passengers to accommodate it. Some of them are:

• Le Méridien Cairo Airport Hotel: This hotel is directly connected with Terminal 3 by a pedestrian walk. It also offers luxury rooms, dining and conference facilities. 
• Novotel Cairo Airport: You just need a 5 minute shuttle bus ride from the terminal to reach this hotel which offers you luxury rooms. 
• Other Hotels: There are numerous hotels of 3 or 4 star category located in a range of 10 km from the airport which offers you comfort and convenience.

Tips for Travelers: What to Know Before You Go. 

Here are some helping tips if you are going to experience Cairo International Airport in future:

• Visas: Egypt allows the passengers of the USA and  many other countries to get a visa on arrival by paying just a $25 fee. You can also apply for a visa through Egypts e-visa portal as well.
• Customs: It is suggested to read instructions of customs if you are coming with medication stuff or large sums of cash. 
• Banking Service: There are a bunch of ATMs and currency exchange counters available on every terminal.
• Language and Safety: English & Arabic is widely spoken at the Airport among staff and signages. Cairo Airport follows high security rules, So try to reach the airport at least 3 hours before the departure time. 
• Fast Track Service: There are many private companies that offer you fast track service for arrival and departure. We also offer Fast Track Service at Cairo Airport, which allows you to relax and we will handle all buzzy points at the airport for you. You can directly book the service here.

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Future Plans: Cairo Airport’s Expansion and Vision 2030

The Egyptian government is in the process of executing some expansion and enhancing plans for coming years. These  projects are:

• Terminal 4: Construction of the new terminal named Terminal 4 to provide a smooth and relaxing experience at the airport for passengers. 
• Metro Plan: Connection of high speed rails and metro system to link the airport with major city points.  
• Cargo: The expansion of Cargo facilities at the airport.
• Smart technologies: Implementation of smart technologies like biometric check-ins and automated border control.

Cairo International Airport grew along with the city's development from the war time to nowadays. It has a critical role in boosting the tourism industry in Cairo by connecting millions of tourists with ancient pharaoh land. This airport is a crucial link between Africa and the world for the passengers who are traveling for business, tourism, or transit.