Cairo International Airport reported a significant increase in passenger traffic, handling 6,009,356 passengers on 42,531 flights during August and September 2026. This represents an 8% rise from the same period in 2025, when the airport handled 5,573,418 passengers on 39,001 flights. The growth in passenger numbers and flights is a positive indicator for Egypt's aviation sector.
The increase in passenger traffic is attributed to various factors, including improved air connectivity and enhanced airport facilities. In August 2026, Cairo Airport handled 3,133,767 passengers on 22,053 flights, compared to 2,869,522 passengers on 19,895 flights in August 2025. This represents a 9% increase in passenger numbers and an 11% rise in flights.
September 2026 also saw significant growth, with 2,875,589 passengers on 20,478 flights, up from 2,703,896 passengers on 19,106 flights in September 2025. This represents a 6% increase in passenger numbers and a 7% rise in flights. The steady growth in passenger traffic is expected to continue, driven by the airport's expansion plans.
Civil Aviation Minister Sameh Elhefny announced plans to build a new Terminal 4 at Cairo International Airport, with an annual capacity of up to 40 million passengers. The project aims to increase the airport's total annual capacity to around 70 million passengers, supporting expected growth in passenger traffic and flights.
The expansion plan includes infrastructure upgrades, improvements in operational efficiency, and the adoption of digital and technological solutions. These measures are expected to enhance the airport's role as a major aviation hub linking Africa, Asia, and Europe. The project will also support Egypt's position as a regional transport and logistics centre.
Cairo International Airport has strengthened its position in African aviation, ranking first among African airports in scheduled seat capacity in September 2026, with around 1.79 million seats. This represents an 11.2% increase from September 2025, according to aviation analytics provider OAG.
The airport's growth is part of a broader development plan that includes measures to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. The plan is expected to have a positive impact on the airport's operations and the environment. With its expanding capacity and improving facilities, Cairo International Airport is poised to continue its growth trajectory.
Key points
- Cairo International Airport handled over 6 million passengers in August and September 2026, an 8% increase from the same period in 2025.
- The airport is set to expand its capacity with the construction of a new Terminal 4, which will increase its annual capacity to 70 million passengers.
- Cairo International Airport ranked first among African airports in scheduled seat capacity in September 2026, with around 1.79 million seats.
