Air Cairo

Air Cairo is a dynamic air bridge connecting the ancient grandeur of Egypt with the modern rhythm of Europe and the Middle East. As a subsidiary of the national carrier EgyptAir, this airline offers travelers an optimal balance between affordable fares and high service standards, providing convenient access to both the legendary pyramids and the sunny resorts of the Red Sea. It is the choice for those who value reliability and seek to experience authentic Arab hospitality from the moment they step on board.

History and Positioning

The airline was founded in 2003 and has since evolved from a charter carrier into a full-fledged scheduled airline with a hybrid service model. Air Cairo's mission is to develop the country's tourism potential by ensuring a steady flow of guests to famous Egyptian resorts while supporting regional business connections.

Flight Geography

The company's route network is extensive and diverse. The key hub is Cairo, from where dozens of flights depart daily. For tourists dreaming of a beach holiday, frequent departures are available to sunny Hurghada and picturesque Sharm El Sheikh. History enthusiasts actively use flights to Luxor and Aswan to see ancient monuments, as well as to the city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast.

The carrier's international presence is particularly notable in Europe and the Middle East. The company flies actively to Italy, connecting Egypt with cities such as Milan and eternal Rome. The German market is represented by flights to Hanover, Munich, Cologne, Dusseldorf, and Berlin.

In the Middle East, Air Cairo provides vital transport corridors, operating flights to cities in Saudi Arabia: Jeddah, Riyadh, Yanbu, and the holy city of Medina. Routes to Kuwait City (Kuwait) and Sharjah (UAE) are also popular.

Fleet and Safety

The airline's fleet is one of the youngest in the region, consisting primarily of modern Airbus A320 family liners, as well as ATR 72-600 and Embraer 190 aircraft for regional lines. Air Cairo prioritizes flight safety: the company successfully passes the IOSA operational safety audit, confirming compliance with strict international aviation standards.

For prompt resolution of issues related to ticket purchases, changing flight dates, or baggage allowance rules, passengers can use official communication channels with Air Cairo. The airline recommends using digital services to obtain the most up-to-date information.

Official Website

The most reliable source of data and the place to manage your journey is the carrier's internet portal. It is here, in the "Contact Us" section, that current call center phone numbers for different countries, email addresses, and links to messengers are published.

Available Contact Methods

Instead of searching for scattered information on the internet, refer to the tools listed on the airline's website:

• Phone Support: The site lists numbers for calls from Egypt (mobile and landline), as well as international lines for calls from abroad.
• Messengers: An official WhatsApp channel is available for quick chat support.
• Email: Dedicated addresses for online booking inquiries and group requests.
• Mobile App: The Air Cairo app (for iOS and Android) allows you to not only manage bookings but also receive important notifications.

Social Media

The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, where it publishes news about new destinations and special offers. Official Air Cairo accounts can be found on popular platforms:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter (X)
• LinkedIn

Offices and Representatives

The company's central office is located in Egypt. In other countries, customer service is often provided through authorized agents at airports.

• Headquarters Address: 6 El-Safa Street, Sheraton Heliopolis, Cairo, Egypt.

Important: Contact details may be updated. We strongly recommend checking support service hours and current phone numbers directly on the airline's official website before reaching out.

Preparing for a trip with Air Cairo begins with packing your suitcases correctly. To ensure your check-in at the airport is quick and free of extra charges, it is important to familiarize yourself with baggage allowances in advance, as they may vary depending on the fare, route, and class of service.

Hand Luggage

On most Air Cairo flights, Economy Class passengers are allowed to take one piece of hand luggage into the cabin. The standard weight is usually limited to 7 kg (on some routes up to 8 kg), and dimensions must not exceed 55x40x23 cm, including wheels and handles. In addition to the main bag, one small personal item is permitted, such as a handbag, a briefcase with a laptop, or a camera, which can be placed under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage

Rules for checking baggage into the hold depend on your chosen fare and flight destination ("Weight Concept" or "Piece Concept"). We recommend carefully checking the conditions on your e-ticket.

• Europe and International Flights: The piece concept is often applied. The standard allowance for Economy Class is usually 1 suitcase weighing up to 23 kg. "Lite" category fares may not include free checked baggage at all, offering only hand luggage.
• Domestic Flights and Middle East: A weight system may apply here, allowing up to 30 kg (sometimes up to 40 kg depending on promotions or fares), distributed among several bags.

Excess Baggage

If the weight or number of your bags exceeds the free allowance, an additional fee will apply. Air Cairo charges fees for each extra kilogram (under the weight system) or for an additional piece (under the piece system). Tip: Paying for extra baggage online via the airline's website or mobile app is usually significantly cheaper than paying directly at the airport check-in counter.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Egypt is a mecca for divers and kitesurfers. If you are heading to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh with your gear, consider the following nuances:

• Sports equipment (diving gear, golf clubs, bicycles) is usually not included in the standard baggage allowance and is paid for separately.
• Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit hand luggage dimensions, or you may purchase a separate seat for them (e.g., for a cello).
• The airline requests notification of non-standard cargo transport in advance, preferably no later than 48 hours before departure.

Restrictions and Prohibited Items

Strict rules regarding the contents of your bags exist for flight safety:

• Power Banks and Lithium Batteries: Allowed only in hand luggage. It is strictly forbidden to check them in baggage due to fire risk.
• Liquids in Cabin: In hand luggage, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a volume of up to 1 liter.
• Prohibited Everywhere: Flammable substances, compressed gases, toxic materials, and sharp objects (in the cabin).

Tips for Effective Packing

To avoid stress before departure, weigh your suitcase at home before traveling to the airport. Make your luggage recognizable: tie a bright ribbon or use a cover with a unique pattern — this will help you find it faster on the baggage carousel in a busy airport like Cairo. Always keep valuables, documents, money, and vital medicines with you in your hand luggage.

Traveling with a four-legged friend requires careful preparation, and Air Cairo strives to make this process possible for pet owners. However, transport rules here have their own nuances depending on the aircraft type and route. To avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport, we recommend carefully reviewing the conditions before booking a ticket.

In the Aircraft Cabin (PETC)

The most comfortable option for small pets is traveling next to their owner. Air Cairo allows cats and small dogs in the cabin if strict weight and size limitations are met.

• Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier (container) must usually not exceed 8 kg.
• Placement: A key requirement for cage dimensions is that it must fit freely and safely under the seat in front. Exact dimensions may vary depending on the cabin layout of a specific aircraft, so it is best to verify them on the official website or call center before departure.
• Comfort: The bottom of the container must be waterproof and covered with absorbent material. The animal must be able to stand up and turn around inside.
• Booking: The number of spots for animals in the cabin is strictly limited. A request for the service must be submitted in advance, preferably at the same time as purchasing the ticket.

In the Baggage Hold (AVIH)

Transporting animals as checked baggage requires special attention. Previously, strict restrictions applied on many flights, but now the availability of this service depends on the technical characteristics of the specific aircraft.

• Approval Required: Not all Air Cairo aircraft types (especially small regional planes) are equipped with ventilated and heated cargo holds suitable for transporting living creatures.
• How to Arrange: You cannot simply arrive at the airport with a large dog. You must contact the airline in advance and receive written confirmation that the AVIH (Animal in Hold) service is possible on your flight.
• Cage Requirements: If transport is confirmed, the container must be rigid, securely lockable, and compliant with international IATA standards.

Cargo Transportation

If your pet is too large for the cabin and transport in the passenger flight's hold is impossible, the option remains to send them via the cargo terminal (Air Cargo).

• The animal is processed as special cargo via an air waybill.
• This method is often the only solution for fighting dog breeds or very large animals.
• The procedure requires more complex documentation and handing over the pet at the cargo warehouse several hours before departure.

Necessary Documents

To check in for a flight, whether departing from the hub in Cairo or from an overseas airport, you will need a full set of veterinary papers:

• International veterinary passport.
• Valid vaccination certificate (particular attention is paid to the rabies vaccine given within the established timeframe — usually at least 30 days and no more than a year before departure).
• Health certificate (form depends on the destination country).
• Microchip (mandatory requirement for entry into European countries).

Cost of Service

Animal transport is not included in the free baggage allowance. It is a paid service, the cost of which is calculated based on the weight of the animal including the cage and the flight destination (domestic or international). The fee can be paid at the airport check-in counter or in advance through the airline's contact center.

Expert Tip: Given that Air Cairo's fleet varies, never rely on luck. Contact customer support immediately after planning your travel dates to guarantee a spot for your pet on board.

Loyalty Programme

As a subsidiary of the national carrier, Air Cairo allows its passengers to enjoy the benefits of the prestigious EGYPTAIR Plus loyalty programme. This makes travel not only comfortable but also rewarding, turning every flight from the hub in Cairo or other airports into a step toward new privileges and free tickets.

Membership Tiers

The programme is designed to reward frequent flyers, offering them increasingly valuable bonuses as they move up the status ladder:

• Blue: The base level assigned immediately upon registration; allows accumulating miles and exchanging them for rewards.
• Silver: Members receive the right to extra baggage allowance and priority when confirming bookings.
• Gold: An elite level opening access to business lounges, priority flight check-in, and priority baggage handling.
• Platinum: The maximum status with personalized service, the ability to gift status to a partner, and no expiration on miles.

How to Earn Miles

Topping up your bonus account happens not only in the sky but also on the ground. The higher the booking class and flight distance, the more miles are credited to the member's card:

• Take flights with EgyptAir and Air Cairo (depending on the fare) to cities such as Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or Luxor.
• Fly with partner airlines around the world.
• Book stays at partner hotels and use car rental services.
• Apply for co-branded credit cards from partner banks to earn points on everyday purchases.

How to Spend Miles

Accumulated points are a traveler's universal currency, which can be used to improve trip quality:

• Issuing free Award Tickets on airline and partner flights.
• Upgrading service class from Economy to Business Class for maximum comfort.
• Paying for excess baggage if your suitcases exceed standard limits.
• Exchanging miles for goods or services from programme partners (in some regions).

Alliance Membership

Thanks to close ties with the parent company, the EGYPTAIR Plus programme is integrated into the global aviation alliance Star Alliance. This means that:

• Passengers can earn miles by flying with major global carriers (such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines).
• Status members (Gold and higher) gain access to over 1,000 alliance lounges worldwide.
• Through check-in and baggage transfer are ensured when flying with different alliance companies.

How to Join

Becoming a programme member is simple and free. To do so, you need to:

• Fill out the online form on the official EGYPTAIR Plus website or mobile app.
• Receive a personal Membership Number.
• Provide this number with every ticket booking or at the check-in counter before departure.

Air Cairo operates on a hybrid model, aiming to combine the affordability of low-cost carriers with the comfort of classic airlines. Whether you are flying a short route within Egypt or embarking on a long journey to Europe, you will be met on board by a friendly crew and a modern cabin. The aircraft fleet is constantly being updated, allowing for improved flight conditions for passengers.

Travel Classes

Depending on the aircraft type and destination, the cabin layout may vary. The main focus is on Economy Class, but an elevated level of comfort is also available on newer liners.

• Economy Class: The most popular choice among tourists. Cabins are equipped with ergonomic leather seats with sufficient legroom (standard seat pitch is about 29-30 inches). This is an optimal solution for flights to resorts such as Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.
• Business Class: Available on select flights operated by new Airbus A320neo and Embraer 190 aircraft. Passengers are offered wider seats with increased recline, priority boarding and disembarkation, as well as an enhanced dining menu.

Food and Beverages

Air Cairo ensures passengers do not go hungry, though the dining concept depends on flight duration and fare:

• On short domestic flights, passengers are usually offered a bottle of water.
• On international flights (for example, from European cities like Milan or Munich to Cairo), the ticket price often includes a Halal light snack (sandwich or pastry) and beverages (juice, water, tea, coffee).
• On some routes, a pre-order hot meal service is available for an additional fee. We recommend checking this when booking your ticket.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Individual screens in seatbacks are absent on most aircraft, but that doesn't mean you will be bored. The airline is implementing modern streaming entertainment systems:

• Wireless Streaming System: On new aircraft, passengers can connect their smartphones, tablets, or laptops to the onboard Wi-Fi network (without internet access) and watch movies, listen to music, or read news for free via their device's browser.
• In-flight Magazine: In the seat pocket, you will find the latest issue of the branded magazine featuring interesting travel articles, route maps, and tips for tourists.

Services for Passengers with Children

Air Cairo is friendly to family travelers. Infants under 2 years travel on their parents' laps at a significantly reduced fare (only a small percentage of the fare and taxes is charged). Discounts are available for older children. If you are flying with a stroller, it can be checked in for free at the aircraft steps and retrieved immediately upon arrival.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The airline provides necessary support to passengers with special needs. Escort service and wheelchair assistance are provided free of charge but require a mandatory request no later than 48 hours before departure. Airport staff and flight attendants are trained to provide assistance with boarding and seating in the cabin.

Air Cairo's route network is built around its strategic hub in Cairo, ensuring convenient connections between Egypt, Europe, and the Middle East. The carrier maintains a high frequency of flights to both domestic resorts and historical centers, as well as international destinations, including cities in Italy, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. Below is detailed information on the airline's most popular routes over the past three weeks.

Traveling with Air Cairo becomes much more comfortable and cost-effective if you know a few simple planning rules. We have gathered key recommendations to help you save your budget and avoid unnecessary hassle before departing from the hub in Cairo or other airports in the network.

Best Time to Book

To "catch" the lowest fares, experts recommend purchasing tickets well in advance. The optimal time to buy tickets for scheduled international flights to Europe or the Middle East is 2–3 months before the intended departure date. If you plan to vacation during the high season (New Year holidays, Easter, or summer months), it is better to book even earlier. For spontaneous trips within Egypt, you can sometimes find good deals 2–3 weeks out, but this is rather an exception.

Hunting for Discounts and Promotions

The airline regularly holds sales timed to national holidays or the launch of new routes. To not miss out on savings:

• Subscribe to the newsletter on the carrier's official website.
• Follow updates on official social media pages.
• Pay attention to "Lite" fares (no baggage) or "Promo" fares — they are the most affordable but have strict restrictions on changes and refunds. This is an ideal option for those traveling light.

Online Check-in: Saving Time

Do not waste time in queues at airport counters. Air Cairo offers a convenient web check-in service:

• When it opens: Usually, check-in on the website or app becomes available 48 hours prior and closes 90 minutes before departure.
• How it works: You can select a seat in the cabin and receive your boarding pass electronically.
• Important Nuance: In some Egyptian airports, despite having an electronic pass, security services may require a paper copy or a stamp from the check-in counter. We recommend checking current requirements for your specific departure airport in advance or carrying a printout.

Seat Selection

In-flight comfort is a personal matter. If you want to enjoy views of the Nile or the desert during landing approach, book a Window seat in advance. For those who prefer to leave the aircraft faster after landing, Aisle seats are suitable. Specific seat selection is usually a paid service for the cheapest fares. Seats in Emergency Exit rows offer more legroom, but can only be occupied by adult passengers who speak English or Arabic and have no physical limitations.

Mobile App

The airline's official app is your main assistant on the road. With it, you can not only buy a ticket but also:

• Manage your booking (e.g., add extra baggage or order meals).
• Track flight status in real-time.
• Store travel history and boarding passes.

Travel Insurance

When booking tickets, especially to resort destinations, it is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance. Medical care abroad can be expensive. Ensure your policy covers not only basic medical expenses but also active leisure activities (diving, snorkeling) if you are flying to the Red Sea. It is also useful to consider trip cancellation insurance to recover ticket costs in case of unforeseen trip cancellation.

Foundation and Early Years

The history of Air Cairo dates back to 2003. The company was created as a charter division designed to meet the growing demand for tourist transport to Egypt. A key success factor was powerful backing: the main shareholder of the carrier was the national flagship EgyptAir. In its early years, Air Cairo focused exclusively on charter flights, delivering organized tourist groups from Europe to the sunny beaches of the Red Sea.

Strategy Shift and New Horizons

A major milestone in development was the transition from a purely charter model to a hybrid "Low Cost / Hybrid" operation scheme (budget scheduled transport). This decision allowed the company to enter the scheduled flight market, offering tickets to individual travelers, not just tour operators. This step significantly expanded flight geography and made Egyptian resorts more accessible to independent tourists.

Fleet Evolution

The airline's fleet has undergone significant changes over the past two decades. Starting flights on classic Airbus A320 family liners, the company set a course for total renewal and modernization of its park.

• The NEO Era: In recent years, the newest Airbus A320neo aircraft have become the backbone of the fleet. These planes feature increased fuel efficiency, reduced noise levels, and more comfortable cabins, allowing the company to strengthen its position in the environmentally demanding European market.
• Regional Expansion: To improve connectivity within Egypt, ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft were acquired. This allowed the launch of short but important flights between tourist centers, for example, connecting resort Hurghada with historic Luxor.
• Flexibility: The inclusion of Embraer 190 aircraft in the fleet provided the opportunity to efficiently serve routes with medium passenger traffic.

Network Expansion

The development of the hub in Cairo allowed the airline to build a reliable bridge between continents. A significant stage was the active development of European destinations, particularly cities in Germany and Italy. The launch of scheduled flights to Milan, Rome, and Munich strengthened the carrier's status as a reliable partner for European tourists.

In parallel, active development took place in the Middle East. The company secured strong positions in the transport market to Saudi Arabia, opening high-frequency flights to cities such as Jeddah and Riyadh, which became an important contribution to serving pilgrims and business travelers.

Modernity and Innovation

Today, Air Cairo is not just a charter carrier, but a modern airline meeting global standards. An important achievement was the successful completion of the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit), confirming a high level of reliability. The company is actively implementing digital technologies, developing its mobile app and online services, and deepening integration with its parent company EgyptAir through code-share agreements, opening access to a global flight map for its passengers.