Latest news with #SamehEl-Hefny
Egypt Today
2 days ago
- Business
- Egypt Today
Egypt talks cooperation in aviation safety programs at AFI Aviation Week
Air Crafts - cc CAIRO - 31 May 2025: On the sidelines of Africa Aviation Week 2025 (AFI Aviation Week) in Zimbabwe, Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, held a series of high-level bilateral meetings aimed at deepening international cooperation in civil aviation. A key engagement featured an expanded session with Boeing officials, led by Kayode "Kay" Ariwudola, Boeing's Director of Global Safety and Regulatory Affairs for the Middle East and Africa. The meeting was also attended by Captain Amr El-Sharkawy, Chairman of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority. Discussions focused on advancing aviation safety and fostering sustainable aviation practices. Key topics included the integration of carbon-reduction technologies and the increased use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Both sides underscored the importance of aligning with international safety standards while enhancing regulatory and technical capacities to ensure optimal safety in the sector. The talks aligned with Egypt's broader national strategy, which emphasizes sustainable development and the implementation of environmental standards across all sectors, including air transport. Dr. El-Hefny reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to transforming Egypt's aviation industry through environmentally conscious practices, including the adoption of clean fuels and the modernization of aviation infrastructure in line with global sustainability benchmarks. Highlighting Egypt's potential as a regional leader in green aviation technologies, Dr. El-Hefny emphasized the Ministry's efforts to attract high-quality investments by fostering a supportive business climate. He noted that Egypt is eager to leverage international expertise in environmental innovation to further its sustainable development goals. Participating nations at the event echoed these priorities, reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability in aviation. Renewed support was voiced for the ICAO Global Framework for Sustainable Aviation Fuels, as well as the ACT-SAF (Assistance, Capacity Building, and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels) program, which promotes the adoption of low-carbon aviation technologies and clean energy sources. Boeing's Kayode Ariwudola praised Egypt's environmental strides in aviation, particularly its move toward sustainable operational models. He reaffirmed Boeing's dedication to partnering with Egypt to deliver innovative solutions that enhance fuel efficiency and reduce aviation's carbon footprint.
Al-Ahram Weekly
5 days ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Egypt's Civil Aviation Minister visits Airbus headquarters as EgyptAir modernisation drive continues - Urban & Transport
Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny paid a visit to Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France, reaffirming the government's commitment to modernising the national aviation sector and enhancing strategic partnerships with global industry leaders. Accompanied by EgyptAir Holding Company Chairman Ahmed Adel, the minister toured Airbus facilities and met with senior executives to discuss ongoing cooperation, according to a statement by the ministry on Friday. The visit underscored Egypt's efforts to position itself as a regional hub for aviation and logistics, while aligning its civil aviation strategy with international standards. El-Hefny praised Egypt's longstanding ties with Airbus, highlighting their role in supporting the country's aviation development plans. He stressed the importance of such partnerships in driving economic growth and boosting tourism through improved air connectivity. The visit also served as a follow-up to EgyptAir's 2023 agreement with Airbus to acquire ten A350-900 aircraft, part of a broader strategy to modernise the airline's 70-aircraft fleet. The wide-body jets, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and equipped with advanced in-flight entertainment systems, are designed to carry 340 passengers across Business and Economy Class. The A350-900s are expected to enhance EgyptAir's long-haul network by reducing fuel consumption by up to 25%, cutting emissions, and lowering operating costs—key elements in the airline's push for sustainability and competitiveness. Adel described the fleet upgrade as a strategic milestone for EgyptAir, noting its contribution to improving service quality and expanding international routes more efficiently. Airbus Africa and Middle East President Gabriel Semelas welcomed the minister's visit and expressed pride in the partnership with EgyptAir. He reaffirmed Airbus's support through advanced aircraft technology, training, and digital services tailored to meet global standards. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Egypt Today
18-05-2025
- Egypt Today
Kazakh woman dies, two injured after billboard falls at Sharm El Sheikh airport
A file photo of Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport - CC CAIRO – 18 May 2025: A Kazakh woman has died, and two other women were injured after an advertising billboard fell at Sharm El Sheikh International Airport on Sunday morning. The victims were waiting to board a flight to the Kazakh capital, Astana, in Terminal 2. The Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that despite intensive medical efforts, the woman succumbed to her injuries after being transported to Sharm El Sheikh International Hospital for necessary care. The conditions of the two injured passengers have stabilized following treatment. The Public Prosecution has commenced an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and establish liability. The ministry said. The flight was allowed to depart after all required technical and security measures were taken. The injured woman and her daughter were exempted from travel and provided accommodation in a hotel until medical care is completed. The ministry has reached out to Kazakhstan's honorary consul and the Kazakh consul in Cairo to extend condolences and assure a transparent official investigation by the prosecution. Sameh El-Hefny, the Minister of Civil Aviation, has ordered arrangements for the son of the deceased to stay until relevant coordination procedures with the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Egypt are finalized.
Al-Ahram Weekly
14-05-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
INTERVIEW: SITA backs Egypt's aviation future with new Cairo tech hub: MEA president - Economy
SITA, the global IT provider for the air transport industry, has inaugurated its first Command Center in the Middle East and Africa, establishing a strategic presence in Cairo. The new Cairo Command Center (SCC) joins the company's global network of hubs alongside those in Montreal and Singapore. The facility offers 24/7 real-time monitoring of networks, infrastructure, and applications, ensuring uninterrupted support for airports, airlines, and governments worldwide. Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, and SITA's President for the Middle East & Africa, Selim Bouri, attended the inauguration. Speaking to Ahram Online, Bouri explained how the Cairo hub reflects SITA's commitment to the region and aligns with Egypt's broader strategy to involve the private sector in managing 11 of its airports. 'This is only our third global Command Center,' Bouri said. 'Cairo was chosen because of its strategic location, growing aviation market, and deep talent pool.' Why Cairo? Bouri explained that a mix of strategic, logistical, and economic considerations shaped the decision to establish the SCC in Egypt. 'Egypt's unique position at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East makes it an ideal location for supporting a rapidly growing aviation market in the region," he stated. 'The country's long history as a major player in the global aviation sector, coupled with its burgeoning tech industry, made Cairo a prime candidate for this high-tech facility.' Some of those factors included: Skilled Workforce: Egypt's tech sector has produced a highly educated workforce, especially in IT, with multilingual capabilities in Arabic, English, and French—ideal for international aviation support. Geographic Advantage: Cairo offers excellent regional connectivity across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, helping SITA deliver faster, more efficient services. Established Presence: SITA has operated in Egypt for over 70 years, making it a natural base to expand its regional operations. Supportive Policy Environment: The Egyptian government's push to modernise aviation infrastructure and encourage foreign investment also played a key role. 'The Minister of Civil Aviation himself is a technology advocate,' Bouri noted. Egypt's aviation growth Bouri told Ahram Online that Egypt's aviation sector is growing rapidly, with Middle East and North Africa (MENA) passenger numbers expected to double in the next five years. This growth is straining current infrastructure and increasing the demand for more innovative, tech-enabled solutions. 'SITA's Cairo Command Center is designed to meet these needs—providing real-time support, improving safety, and enhancing the passenger experience,' he said. As national carrier EgyptAir and other regional airlines expand, SITA's technology will address congestion and operational inefficiencies at major airports. Private Sector Partnerships Bouri also discussed Egypt's strategy to upgrade airport infrastructure through public-private partnerships (PPPs), calling it a 'critical step' toward faster investment, better decision-making, and technological modernisation. 'Maintaining and upgrading a large number of airports is costly,' he said. 'By allowing private investors to take a stake in airport management, Egypt hopes to alleviate the strain on public funds and expedite the implementation of new technologies. SITA's experience with similar models around the world has made it an ideal partner for such initiatives.' He emphasized that SITA's global experience with PPPs and its use of a 'concession model', which allows co-financing and long-term partnerships, make it well-positioned to support Egypt and others in the region. AI at the airport Bouri discussed the role of artificial intelligence and said SITA is leading the integration of AI in airport systems to improve operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction. 'AI helps us predict passenger flows, optimise staffing, and manage resources more effectively,' he said, citing Toronto Pearson International Airport as a success story. AI has reduced wait times by aligning staffing levels with real-time demand. SITA plans to roll out similar AI-driven systems in MENA airports, where passenger volumes are rapidly increasing. 'The ability to predict and manage passenger flow will be crucial for maintaining a smooth and efficient airport experience, especially during peak travel times,' Bouri said. Challenges and opportunities While acknowledging the region's political and economic challenges, Bouri described them as opportunities for innovation. 'Aviation can be a powerful driver of growth and job creation. With airport expansion across Egypt and the wider region, there's a strong demand for advanced solutions.' He added that SITA is uniquely placed to integrate technology into critical infrastructure, from baggage handling and immigration systems to airside operations. A long-term commitment Bouri concluded with a firm message: 'Our new Cairo center reinforces SITA's long-term commitment to Egypt and the EMEA region. We're here to help reshape the aviation landscape with smart, scalable technologies.' SITA will continue working with airlines, airport operators, and governments to future-proof infrastructure and deliver seamless passenger experiences. 'The goal is simple: ensure the region's airports are ready for what's next.' Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Zawya
07-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Cairo Airport hits record high with 102,108 passengers in one day
Cairo International Airport has set a new record for daily passenger traffic, welcoming 102,108 travelers in a single day—its highest since the airport's opening on 18 May 1963. The day also saw 682 flight movements, comprising 343 departures and 339 arrivals. The milestone reflects the airport's growing capacity to meet rising travel demand and underscores its operational efficiency as Egypt's primary gateway and a strategic regional hub. Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny hailed the achievement as a testament to the ministry's strategic plan, which focuses on modernizing airport infrastructure, expanding capacity, and enhancing service quality across Egypt's aviation sector. He noted that the plan aims to position Cairo International Airport as a leading air transport hub in both the Middle East and Africa. El-Hefny added that Egypt is entering a new phase of airport development, with greater involvement from the private sector, to keep pace with global aviation trends and meet projected increases in passenger traffic. The goal, he said, is to double Cairo Airport's annual capacity to 60 million passengers in line with Egypt Vision 2030. Ayman Fawzy Arab, Chairperson of the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation (EHAAN), praised the airport's continuous improvement in handling growing air traffic. He emphasized the commitment to adopting advanced technologies and enhancing logistical services to provide a world-class travel experience for all passengers. Meanwhile, Cairo Airport Company Chairperson Magdy Ishaq confirmed that all airport facilities were operating at peak readiness to accommodate the surge in traffic and incoming tourism. Emergency plans, logistical services, and staffing protocols were fully activated across all terminals to ensure smooth operations and top-tier service delivery.
