Egypt’s aviation sector is entering a decisive period of growth, with state-owned EgyptAir and its subsidiary Air Cairo unveiling ambitious fleet expansion plans. EgyptAir has confirmed plans to add five Airbus A350-900s and eight Boeing 737-8 aircraft in 2026, marking one of its most significant fleet investments in recent years. The move forms part of a broader strategy to modernise the airline’s fleet, enhance operational efficiency and strengthen its competitive position across the Middle East, Africa and key long-haul markets.
The introduction of the A350-900, renowned for its fuel efficiency, extended range and advanced passenger comfort, is expected to significantly enhance EgyptAir’s long-haul capabilities. These aircraft will support services to Europe, Asia and the Americas, while offering passengers quieter cabins, improved air quality and next-generation in-flight systems. Meanwhile, the Boeing 737-8 will play a critical role in reinforcing short- and medium-haul operations, allowing the airline to increase frequencies and expand connectivity across Africa, the Middle East and southern Europe.
Aviation Supporting Egypt’s Tourism Ambitions
Egypt’s tourism industry remains a cornerstone of the national economy and a key element of its international soft power. Home to some of the world’s most recognisable heritage sites, the country continues to attract millions of visitors annually, with 2025 attracting a historic figure of over 19 million visitors.
In recent years, the Egyptian government has invested heavily in airport infrastructure, resort development and transport connectivity. EgyptAir’s fleet expansion aligns closely with these national objectives, reinforcing the airline’s role as a primary enabler of inbound tourism and global access to Egyptian destinations. Improved aircraft efficiency will also support sustainability goals by reducing fuel burn and emissions per seat.
Air Cairo Accelerates Narrowbody Growth
Alongside EgyptAir’s widebody and narrowbody expansion, Air Cairo is pursuing an aggressive growth strategy of its own. The low-cost carrier, in which EgyptAir holds a majority stake, aims to double its fleet by the end of the decade, positioning itself as one of Africa’s leading Airbus A320-family operators.
Air Cairo currently operates approximately 39 aircraft, with plans to grow to around 45 aircraft by the end of 2026and as many as 72 aircraft by 2029–2030, depending on market conditions and delivery schedules. Earlier targets included reaching around 60 aircraft by 2027.
Central to this expansion is the Airbus A320neo, which forms the backbone of Air Cairo’s fleet due to its lower operating costs and extended range. The airline has secured multiple lease agreements for additional A320neo aircraft, with deliveries scheduled through 2026. To support longer-range leisure routes, particularly into Europe, Air Cairo is also evaluating the A321neo, which would allow greater capacity and range flexibility.
The carrier’s mixed fleet currently includes A320 and A320neo variants, alongside Embraer E190s and ATR 72-600 turboprops, the latter primarily deployed on domestic and short-haul regional services.
Hurghada at the Heart of the Strategy
A key pillar of Air Cairo’s growth plan is the development of Hurghada as a major operational base, aimed at serving high-demand European leisure markets. The Red Sea resort city continues to attract strong interest from tour operators and airlines, particularly from Germany, the UK, Italy and Eastern Europe.
The recent delivery of additional aircraft has already enabled Air Cairo to expand its network from and via Egyptian airports, adding new routes and increasing frequencies to established destinations.
A Coordinated National Aviation Vision
Together, EgyptAir and Air Cairo’s expansion plans reflect a coordinated national aviation strategy focused on fleet renewal, network growth and tourism development. With a combination of next-generation widebody aircraft, efficient narrowbodies and a growing low-cost platform, Egypt is positioning itself to meet rising passenger demand while strengthening its role as a key aviation gateway between Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
