Egyptian Minister of Civil Aviation, Dr. Samah El-Hafni, announced that EgyptAir is pursuing an ambitious plan to update and develop its fleet, targeting 125 aircraft by 2030 and 200 aircraft by 2035. This expansion aims to support the company's growth plans and enhance its operational capacity. The announcement was made during a press conference at EgyptAir's headquarters in Cairo International Airport.

The Egyptian civil aviation sector is also focused on digital transformation and improving services for passengers. Key initiatives include implementing electronic gates (E-Gate), eliminating passport cards, and increasing the use of self-service devices and digital solutions. These efforts aim to simplify travel procedures, enhance operational efficiency, and improve the passenger experience.

Minister El-Hafni praised the ongoing cooperation with the Ministry of Interior and other relevant authorities, highlighting that these efforts seek to streamline travel processes and improve airport efficiency. The upcoming period will see the gradual expansion of electronic gate systems at various Egyptian airports, as well as increased reliance on digital solutions and interconnected systems.

Egypt is working to produce 2% of its sustainable aviation fuel needs by 2030, in line with international trends towards carbon neutrality by 2050. The country is collaborating with the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, as well as two private sector companies, to prepare an economic feasibility study for sustainable fuel production.

The Egyptian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Company (ESAF) represents a significant step towards establishing a national industry for sustainable fuel and supporting Egypt's efforts to reduce emissions in the aviation sector. Minister El-Hafni emphasized the importance of continued coordination with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other international bodies.

The Egyptian civil aviation sector's strategy for the upcoming period focuses on increasing airport capacity, modernizing airline fleets, enhancing operational efficiency, improving services, promoting digital transformation, supporting sustainability, and expanding international partnerships. The sector aims to build on past achievements and convert partnerships into tangible projects that enhance its operational and competitive capabilities.

The development of Egypt's aviation sector is expected to solidify the country's position as a key regional hub for air transport and related services. With a focus on sustainability, digitalization, and modernization, the sector is poised for significant growth and expansion in the coming years.

Key points

  • EgyptAir aims to expand its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2035.
  • Egypt targets production of 2% of its sustainable aviation fuel needs by 2030.
  • The sector's strategy focuses on digital transformation, sustainability, and expanding international partnerships.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.