London, 5th February 2025:
In light of Egypt’s efforts to enhance investment and technical cooperation in civil aviation, Dr. Sameh Elhefny, Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation, participated in the first dialogue session titled “Shaping the Future of Egyptian Civil Aviation” in London, United Kingdom.
This official visit to the United Kingdom aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Egypt and the UK in aviation-related areas of mutual interest, including technology, infrastructure, maintenance services, and other air transport issues.
This visit aligns with the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s broader strategy to enhance international cooperation, attract foreign investment, and position Egypt as a leading aviation hub. It supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 for the sector’s development.
Ambassador Sherif Kamel, Egypt’s Ambassador to the UK, hosted the session, which was moderated by Karim Rafaat, Chairman of NGAGE. Key participants included Magid Elmenshawy, Vice Chairman of the British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA); Dr. Mohannad Khaled, Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce (EBCC) ; and Chris Dane from Baker Tilly. More than 85 business leaders and investors from major British aviation companies attended.
Dr. Elhefny emphasized that such meetings provide an ideal platform for exchanging insights and fostering partnerships in aviation, investment, and technology, which pave the way for sectoral growth in alignment with global standards. He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, particularly in civil aviation. He also highlighted the historical ties between Egypt and the UK as a foundation for developing air transport as a key collaboration area.
Dr. Elhefny noted that the Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation is currently working on strategic projects to improve Egyptian airports. These include plans to expand Cairo International Airport to become a regional hub and increase EGYPTAIR’s fleet to 97 aircraft by 2028, despite the challenges facing the global aviation industry.
The Minister reiterated the government’s support for private sector participation by providing private airlines various incentives and facilities to enhance their market competitiveness. He also emphasized Egypt’s commitment to expanding Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services through EGYPTAIR Maintenance & Engineering Company, which is set to use advanced technologies to grow globally.
He further noted that the Cairo Air Cargo City project aims to position Egypt as a regional hub for air cargo and trade to reinforce its strategic role in Africa and the Middle East.
Additionally, Dr. Elhefny announced plans for a comprehensive strategic study on targeted airport investments, with an international consultancy firm assessing airports suitable for private sector management. The initiative aims to improve management efficiency, service quality, and investment appeal, which reinforces Egypt’s commitment to global aviation partnerships. The Ministry also intends to expand annual airport capacity to 100 million passengers by 2030, with projections estimating 50.5 million passengers by the end of 2025. These numbers reflect significant progress toward this goal.
During the session, Eng. Aiman Arab, Chairman of the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation, highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming Egyptian airports into world-class aviation hubs. He outlined the company’s efforts to modernize airport infrastructure, implement advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and biometric systems, and strengthen international partnerships to ensure operational excellence.
Arab emphasized that Cairo International Airport is set to become Africa’s primary hub for long-haul travel, which is part of Egypt’s broader strategy to enhance its regional and international aviation standing. The holding company will also host global aviation conferences and exhibitions to enhance Egypt’s positioning in the international aviation sector.
In his closing remarks, Arab expressed his vision of Egyptian airports setting a global benchmark for efficiency, innovation, and sustainability while creating a seamless travel experience that connects people, cultures, and opportunities.
A documentary film showcasing future aviation projects and investment opportunities was presented, followed by a discussion session on maintenance and aviation projects.
The visit also included a discussion hosted by the British Egyptian Chamber of Commerce, featuring Eng. Ibrahim Fathy, Chairman & Executive Managing Director of EGYPTAIR Maintenance & Engineering. Fathy highlighted four key investment opportunities within the company:
1. Skilled workforce: A highly trained team accredited by top aviation authorities, including EASA and FAA.
2. Market demand: A strong industry reputation, with maintenance requests exceeding capacity, demonstrating demand for expansion.
3. Strategic location: Egypt’s position allows for cross-continental servicing across Asia, Europe, and Africa, with easy access to spare parts.
4. Favorable investment climate: Egypt’s stable economy provides an attractive environment for aviation investments.
(The above news is published unedited on the basis of press release)
