Dr. Samah El-Hafni, Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, participated in the opening of the 8th Marrakech Air Show, held from October 7 to 10, 2026, in Marrakech, Morocco. The event is taking place under the patronage of King Mohammed VI of Morocco and features a wide range of official delegations and major international companies operating in the aviation, space, and defense sectors. El-Hafni was accompanied by Air Marshal Samah Fawzi, head of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority.
During the event, El-Hafni held bilateral meetings with heads of delegations from Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in civil aviation, exchanging expertise, and supporting air connectivity. The parties also explored partnership and investment opportunities to strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual interests in the air transport sector.
El-Hafni emphasized that the rapid developments in the aviation industry necessitate continuous improvement of operational and technological capabilities, as well as enhanced international cooperation. He highlighted the importance of building new partnerships in technology, operations, and service development to increase sector efficiency and keep pace with industry changes.
Egypt has several advantages that solidify its position as a key hub for air transport, including its strategic location, airport network, and specialized national expertise. El-Hafni noted that efforts are underway to develop infrastructure, enhance airport efficiency, and boost the capabilities of national airlines. This will help expand air connectivity, serve existing markets, open new ones, and promote tourism, trade, and investment.
El-Hafni also mentioned that updating the air navigation system, digital transformation, and utilizing artificial intelligence applications are key areas in the development plans for the aviation sector. These initiatives aim to increase operational efficiency, improve services, and enhance air traffic flow, while investing in qualifying national cadres to meet modern technology requirements.
The minister stressed that Egypt's leading position in civil aviation and its airport network offer vast opportunities for expanding air connectivity with regional and international markets, particularly in Africa. This will support integration and open new avenues for investments in the aviation sector and related services. The Marrakech Air Show provides a platform for meeting decision-makers, major companies, and specialized institutions.
The 8th Marrakech Air Show features around 200 exhibitors from 27 countries, along with high-level official delegations. The event brings together the civil and military aviation, space, and defense sectors, with participation from major global aircraft manufacturers and industry leaders. The show includes aerial displays, a static aircraft exhibition, and professional meetings between companies, government agencies, investors, and official delegations.
Key points
- Dr. Samah El-Hafni seeks to enhance international partnerships in civil aviation at the Marrakech Air Show.
- The event features around 200 exhibitors from 27 countries.
- Egypt aims to expand air connectivity with regional and international markets, particularly in Africa.
