Egypt’s civil aviation sector generates $4.8 bln in 2025/26 – minister

Egypt’s civil aviation sector generated $4.8 billion in revenue during the 2025/26 fiscal year, Civil Aviation Minister Sameh Elhefny told President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Thursday, highlighting the sector’s contribution to the country’s foreign-currency resources.

Elhefny said Egypt had invested more than $400 million in developing its airspace infrastructure through upgrades to radar systems, satellite networks, and communications systems, according to a presidency statement.

Sisi reviewed plans to expand airport infrastructure and strengthen air transport capacity, including the development of Alamein, Sphinx, and New  Capital airports. The projects are expected to add around 12 million passengers annually to the capacity of Egypt’s airport network.

The meeting also covered progress on Terminal 4 at Cairo International Airport, which is intended to strengthen the airport’s position as a regional and international aviation hub.

The first phase of the project is expected to raise annual passenger capacity to 70 million, with a longer-term target of 110 million passengers a year after 2041.

Sisi directed officials to equip the new terminal with advanced technologies, artificial intelligence and digital systems, while meeting international standards for environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.

He also called for upgrades to airports’ digital infrastructure and wider adoption of technology to streamline travel procedures, improve passenger experience, and increase operational efficiency.

The president further called for faster implementation of policies, legislation, and incentives to boost inbound tourism and expand air links with international markets. The government aims to increase private aviation’s share of tourist transport to 30 per cent, the presidency said.