List of Airports in Egypt: Gateways to Ancient Wonders

Nov 06, 2025 0

Egypt, the land of ancient wonders and vibrant culture, is home to a well-connected network of airports that serve millions of travelers every year. From bustling international hubs to regional airports connecting remote corners of the country, Egypt’s aviation infrastructure ensures seamless travel experiences for visitors exploring its iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Whether you’re arriving to marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, unwind on the Red Sea’s pristine beaches, or embark on a Nile cruise, Egyptian airports serve as efficient gateways to your journey. Here’s a list of the most famous airports in Egypt, featuring useful information for travelers. Egypt’s airports reflect the diversity of the country, from cosmopolitan Cairo to serene oases in the Western Desert. With efficient connectivity and tailored services, these airports provide gateways to explore the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of Egypt.

Air transport in Egypt is an integral part of the tourism industry, with airport traffic mainly driven by international tourists and business travelers. Egypt has several international and regional airports that serve as important hubs for the Middle East and Africa. The main airports are in Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.

If you are planning a visit Egypt or travel to any city in Egypt, knowledge about the airports and other travel facility will be really useful.

Egypt is well known for its vast and efficient network of airports which makes traveling both within the country and abroad relatively convenient. For most visitors to Egypt, the ideal manner for traveling is by plane as there are nine international airports in Egypt across all the major cities that also serve as the center for all the domestic flights between the sites, but there are also other ways to travel like trains, cars or Nile river cruises.

Read also: Car Hire Cairo Airport

Egypt is the key to a number of millennia-old monuments in heavenly cities like Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan, plus a number of majestic city resorts across the Red Sea like Hurghada and Sherm El Sheikh that makes them worthy of traveling across vast lands and seas.

Doesn’t matter whether your budget is hefty or small, we will assist you to find the best choice of flights. Just browse through our cheapest flight deals to Egypt and find a suitable flight. Look for the airport in your preferred destination and book your plane ticket without burning a hole in the pocket.

Key Airports in Egypt

All the Airports in Egypt are listed below.

Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Capital International Airport
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
Luxor International Airport
Aswan International Airport
Hurghada International Airport
Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
Marsa Alam International Airport
Borg El Arab International Airport
El Alamein International Airport
Abu Simbel Airport
Assiut Airport
Sohag International Airport
El Arish International Airport
Marsa Matruh International Airport
Port Said Airport
Taba International Airport
Kharga Airport
Tur Sinai Airport

Let's explore some of the most prominent airports in detail:

1. Cairo International Airport (CAI)

Cairo International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Egypt. Cairo International Airport is the main and busiest airport in Egypt, located about 15 kilometers from the heart of Cairo. It is located about 15 kilometers from the city center in the northeastern part of Cairo. The airport has three passenger terminals and an additional terminal for cargo traffic. Terminal 1 was opened in 1963, Terminal 2 in 1986 and Terminal 3 in 2009. The airport's total passenger volume recently exceeded 26 million passengers, which is significantly higher than the nominal capacity of just 20 million.

Cairo International Airport is the earliest and largest airport in all of Egypt and the second busiest airport in Africa. The airport operates in Cairo, scheduling flights to 90 different destinations in 51 countries. Currently, Cairo Airport provides 6 domestic flights from Cairo City.

The airport's history started during World War II. It acted as John Payne Field Air Force Base for the USAAF, which was a significant hub connecting various global routes for cargo and passengers. After the war, it transitioned to civil aviation use under the Civil Aviation Authority and was managed by the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation. The airport has seen significant expansion and development over the years. It comprises four terminals, with Terminal 3 being the largest, opened in 2009, followed by the Seasonal Flights Terminal in 2011. Terminal 2 underwent renovation and reopened in 2016. Within its facilities is a luxurious 350-room Le Méridien hotel, the Hotel Novotel Cairo Airport, a five-star establishment that commenced operations in December 2013 in front of Terminal 3.

It is linked to the terminal by a 230-meter-long skyway equipped with a moving walkway for convenient access. It is owned by the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation and operated by the Cairo Airport Company. The airport is the primary center for Egypt's owned airlines such as Egyptair, Nile Air, Air Arabia Egypt, Air Cairo, and a number of other international airlines. The airport has four massive terminals; each one is equipped with a number of gates that can carry up to 26 million passengers each year.

2. Capital International Airport

Capital International Airport is Egypt's main hub serving the new capital of Egypt which is located about 28 miles east of Cairo. It was established alongside Sphinx International Airport and designed to alleviate pressure from Cairo International Airport. This newly added wonder is designed to be the sky bridge between the future economy of Egypt and the world.

It was inaugurated in July 2019 by the Egyptian Airports Company, which underwent a trial period before starting commercial operations in 2020. The airport spans 16 square kilometers, the airport boasts an elevation of 833 feet, and a main building covering 54,000 square feet. It's equipped to handle around 1 million passengers yearly with massive room for expansion and caters not just to the public but also to petroleum firms, private jets, and air taxi services. The terminal covers 38,000 square feet and can manage 300 passengers per hour.

3. Sphinx International Airport

Sphinx International Airport was created to become more than a public airport found in Giza, near the magical Giza complex, which is located on the western side of Cairo but a magnificent marvel that offers a direct across to the mythical celestial milestones of the immortal ancient Egyptian civilization. It is found next to Cairo West Air Base, which lies along the Cairo-Alexandria desert road.

Its development and operational timeline started with announcements in 2017 in the Cairo-Alexandria desert road, planning commercial flights for summer 2018, and testing operations in October 2018. EgyptAir Express initiated trial flights to Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Luxor, and Aswan in January 2019. The new airport comes in alliance with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to open in 2025. The airport welcomed its first international flight from Jordan in January 2020 by Fly Jordan. Scheduled flights from Sharm El Sheikh to Sphinx Airport commenced in November 2022. While operational, the airport is still undergoing final adjustments.

The airport's total area expand from 4,500 to 23,000 square meters. This expansion aims to accommodate a surge in passenger traffic expected due to the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum.

4. Luxor International Airport

The primary honorable Airport of Luxor is located exactly 6 km (4 mi) east of the golden city of ancient Egyptian gods, kings, and tales. Luxor Airport is a medium-sized airport that operates in Egypt, serving Luxor with 3 domestic flights from Luxor. At the present time, non-stop passenger flights operate from Luxor Airport to 10 destinations in 6 different countries.

It takes about 20 minutes to get to Luxor from the airport, traveling about 10.3 km via Rd Lead. You can’t be in Egypt and not hit the marvelous city of Luxor, the greatest open-air museum you’ll see, with its historical spots and best-preserved monuments. Visit the stunning Luxor and Karnak Temples, as well as the extraordinary Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens. And, don’t miss the splendid Tutankhamun tomb and Temple of Hatshepsut.

It's a favored destination for charter airlines due to its proximity to the renowned River Nile and the Valley of the Kings, attracting many tourists from all over the world. Luxor International Airport operates as both a public and military facility, maintaining a runway of 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) surfaced with asphalt. The terminal operating agent for the entire airport is EgyptAir Cargo, and various charter airlines use the Luxor International Airport.

5. Aswan International Airport

With a history stretching back to 1956, Aswan International Airport, also known as Daraw Airport, has served as a gateway to this ancient Egyptian city for over 65 years. Aswan Airport is a small airport located in Aswan, serving domestic flights only, with four domestic flights from Aswan.

Upgraded in both 1992 and 1999, the airport's 3.4-kilometer runway welcomes travelers from 15 different airlines, with a capacity exceeding one million passengers annually. From bustling shops and bazaars to travel agencies and restaurants, even banks and prayer rooms, Aswan International Airport ensures a smooth and comfortable travel experience.

Aswan is Egypt’s crown jewel, famous for its prominent landmarks, significant monuments, and epic River Nile, attracting tourists from all over the world. Being in Aswan, you can’t miss the architectural marvel, the High Dam, along with Lake Nasser. Also, Aswan will grace you with some of the stunning historical monuments that will just blow your mind, including Philae Temple and Abu Simbel Temple Complex. Escape the hectic world, hop aboard a serene Nile Cruise, pass by the iconic Elephantine Island, and feel the tension leaving your nerves as you feel the fresh breeze grazing your face.

6. Hurghada International Airport

The international airport of Hurghada is located 5 km (3.1 MI) southwest of Hurghada's downtown El Dahar. Hurghada Airport is considered the second-largest airport in Egypt, providing non-stop passenger flights for 52 different destinations in 16 countries. Currently, there are 6 domestic flights operating from Hurghada. The airport can accommodate up to 13 million passengers a year.

7. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

One of the largest and the third busiest airports in Egypt is the Sharm El Sheik International Airport, just across the coast of the Red Sea, which is able to accommodate 10 million passengers a year. Sharm el-Sheikh Airport is considered the third-largest airport in Egypt, serving South Sinai. Sharm el-Sheikh Airport provides non-stop passenger flights to 36 different destinations in 12 countries. Currently, there are 5 domestic flights operating from Sharm el-Sheikh. The airport has two terminals equipped with every means of productivity and entertainment.

8. Marsa Alam International Airport

One of the newest airports to be constructed across the Red Sea is the Marsa Alam airport, which is just 60 km north of the city resort of Marsa Alam and acts as a destination for leisure flights from Europe. Marsa Alam Airport is an international airport that lies in Marsa Alam. In the present time, the airport serves around 22 different destinations in 8 countries, along with four domestic flights from Marsa Alam. It was built in 2003 as a response to the increasing needs of European travelers at the Red Sea southern destination.

9. Borg El Arab International Airport

Borg El Arab International Airport is the primary gateway to Alexandria and the surrounding Nile Delta areas. Borg El Arab Airport is the famous airport operating in Alexandria City, providing non-stop passenger flights to 10 different destinations in 9 countries. It is managed by the Egyptian Airports Company, which is situated about 40 kilometers southwest of Alexandria in Borg El Arab. It was inaugurated in June 2009 as part of the "New Alexandria" expansion plans; the airport became operational in February 2010. It replaced the El Nouzha Airport.

It has an annual capacity of 1.2 million passengers and is known to have undergone a significant expansion to meet escalating demand. Its modern facilities include a distinct boat-shaped passenger terminal across three floors, house check-in, domestic & international arrivals, departures, immigration services, and commercial zones, such as duty-free shops, food courts, and travel-related services. It is equipped with essential infrastructure like boarding bridges, a control tower, and a fire station; the airport ensures smooth operations and emergency coverage.

10. El Alamein International Airport

El Alamein International Airport is a marvelous gateway from the skies of Alexandria to the world it is situated in El Dabaa within the Matrouh Governorate of Egypt and serves as an international airport located on the northern coast, which is approximately 99 miles (160 kilometers) west of Alexandria. This runway is surfaced with asphalt to facilitate smooth takeoffs and landings.

El Alamein International Airport is owned and operated by the International Airports Company, a subsidiary of KATO Investment. The airport's history traces back to 1999 when a bid for a build-operate-transfer (BOT) project was secured by the International Airport Company, thus granting them a 50-year extendable concession.

11. Abu Simbel Airport

Abu Simbel Airport is a sky portal found in the majestic southern lands of Egypt located in Abu Simbel that operates as a regional airport. Abu Simbel Airport is a small airport, offering only domestic flights to or from Abu Simbel. At the present time, Abu Simbel Airport provides a non-stop flight to or from Aswan, covering about 134 miles in 45 minutes.

In 2011, the airport was able to accommodate 119,326 passengers, thus marking a decrease of 75.6% compared to 2010. It features a runway with the designation 15/33, measuring 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) in length, paved with asphalt for aircraft operations.

12. Assiut Airport

Assiut Airport is a delightful airport located in Assiut in upper Egypt that serves as a pivotal air hub in the region. Asyut Airport is a small airport operating in Egypt, providing non-stop passenger flights to 3 different destinations in 3 countries. Currently, there are no domestic flights from Asyut. It is four hours away from Luxor and four & half hours from Hurghada.

The airlines operating at Assiut Airport include Air Cairo, which has flights to Amman-Queen Alia, Jeddah, Kuwait City, Medina, Riyadh, and Dammam. Egyptair has Flights to Cairo. FlyEgypt has flights to Routes to Amman-Queen Alia, Jeddah, and Kuwait City. This public airport is managed by the government and caters to the needs of Assiut and its surrounding areas.

13. Sohag International Airport

Sohag International Airport is a true gem found in southern Egypt. Sohag International Airport is a small airport that operate in Egypt, serving non-stop passenger flights to 6 different destinations in 4 countries. Currently, there are no domestic flights operating from Sohag. Established in 2010 just 15 miles south of Sohag, it stands as a significant hub for the whole area.

It's inspired by ancient Egyptian architecture and is managed by the government. The airport features a runway, 7,707 feet long, surfaced with asphalt for smooth aircraft operations. It was made by Sohag International Airport for around US$80 million; the airport includes a terminal, control tower, aprons, runway, and service buildings. The terminal, with a Pharaonic theme, accommodates 3.5 million passengers yearly and offers various amenities like duty-free shops, VIP areas, and security facilities.

14. El Arish International Airport

El Arish International Airport is an amazing airport situated south of El Arish, which has stood as a key air hub in the region and encompasses a site spanning 400 acres (160 hectares). El Arish International Airport's location has made it vital for travel between Egypt and Palestine. Its terminal is equipped to handle 200 passengers every hour, while the tarmac stretches 9,905 feet (3,019 meters) in length, providing parking space for up to four aircraft.

The airport holds strategic significance due to its proximity to the Gaza Strip, situated about 28 miles (45 kilometers) from the Rafah Border Crossing. This airport is operated by the government and serves El Arish in Egypt and the Gaza Strip in Palestine, sitting at an elevation of 121 feet (37 meters) above mean sea level.

15. Marsa Matruh International Airport

Marsa Matruh International Airport stands as a significant international air facility that has accommodated 99,515 passengers since 2001. This airport operates as a public facility managed by the government and serves the city of Mersa Matruh in Egypt.

16. Port Said Airport

Port Said Airport serves as the primary air gateway to the free-trade city of Port Said, which is positioned at the northern terminus of the Suez Canal. The airport in 2011 facilitated travel for 36,962 passengers, which played an important role in the region's development and led to a modernization program commencing a partial inauguration in February 2011.

It operates under government management that caters to the needs of Port Said, which is situated at an elevation of 8 feet (2 meters) above mean sea level.

17. Taba International Airport

Taba International Airport perches on the Sinai Plateau, elevating 2,470 ft, catering to Taba, Egypt, primarily handling charter flights. Originally Israel's Etzion Air Force Base post-Six-Day War, it demilitarized in 1979, reverting to Egyptian control. Located 13 km from Taba, with a 30 km proximity to Taba Heights, it was renamed in 2000 after substantial upgrades.

18. Kharga Airport

Kharga Airport is a local airport that was established in the New Valley Governorate in 1962 by the Desert Development Authority on an approximate area of about 850 acres. The airport was developed in 1989, where a small building was constructed to serve as a passenger terminal. It was further developed, adding a VIP lounge and extending the runway to 3500 meters.

Kharga Airport is located approximately 7 km from the city of Kharga. The passenger terminal at Kharga Airport has an annual capacity of 100 passengers. The airport features one main runway, designated as 18/36, with a length of 3500 meters and a width of 45 meters. There are two terminals to accommodate passenger services.

19. Tur Sinai Airport

Tur Sinai Airport was established in 1949 with the purpose of serving pilgrims to the Holy Kaaba, where health quarantine procedures were carried out for those arriving from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Subsequently, pilgrims were transported from Tor Sinai Airport to Almaza Airport in Cairo.

The airport operated for general air traffic until its closure after the events of June 1967. Tor Sinai Airport was reopened in 1984, but exclusively for domestic air traffic. The passenger terminal has a capacity of 100 passengers annually. The airport features two runways: the main runway with a direction of 10/28, measuring 3 kilometers in length and 45 meters in width, and the auxiliary runway with the same direction, measuring 3 kilometers in length and 24 meters in width.

Impact of Tourism on Egyptian Aviation

Compared to other countries, an excessively large proportion of air passengers are tourists. These are concentrated at only a few airports close to the main destinations on the beaches and the historical and cultural sights. These are mainly Cairo, Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.

Flight routes away from these locations are therefore less frequently served. At the same time, tourism is subject to strong seasonal fluctuations. The winter months in particular attract many visitors, which not only leads to fully booked hotels, but also to high passenger numbers. The airports therefore have to maintain enormous capacities for the high season, which are hardly used during the rest of the year.

To compensate for this, Egypt is increasingly trying to develop its existing airports into international hubs. However, with competition from Dubai, Qatar, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul in particular, there are already several established hubs in the region that connect Europe, Asia and Africa. It is likely to be difficult to play a significant role here in the future.

Freight volume: In 2021, a total of 589.48 million ton-kilometers (= total mass transported in tons multiplied by kilometers traveled) of cargo was moved by air in Egypt. Cairo International Airport alone accounted for around 300,000 metric tons.