EgyptAir's anniversary: How did it play a pivotal role in connecting the African continent?
A strategic air network has been launched
Written by Omnia Hassan
The national carrier, EgyptAir, played a pivotal role in connecting the north of the continent Africa In its south, east and west, through a strategic air network that started early and has continued to expand to this day.
Birth of the oldest Arab airline
EgyptAir was founded in May 1932, making it one of the oldest airlines in the world. Africa Its commercial flights began in August 1933 between Cairo and Alexandria with a small Spartan Cruiser aircraft.
Regional Leadership Path
From that moment, the company positioned itself on a path of regional leadership, keeping pace with developments in the aviation industry by modernizing its fleet and expanding its international network.
The company went through important historical phases, including changing its name to “United Arab Airlines” in the 1960s, before regaining its original name in 1971, remaining a symbol of Egyptian air sovereignty and a showcase for national hospitality in the sky.
Africa is at the heart of EgyptAir's network
For decades, EgyptAir has considered the African continent a natural extension of its operations, taking advantage of Cairo’s geographical location as a transit point between continents.
Its direct flights have helped facilitate trade, tourism and diplomatic activity between Egypt and African countries.
Among its most prominent routes are the regular flights to Johannesburg, which are among its longest and most important routes within the continent, in addition to operating flights to Kigali to strengthen ties with East Africa.
Flights to Abidjan
The company also strengthened its presence in the west of the continent through flights to Abidjan via Accra.
In recent years, the network has expanded to include new destinations such as Mogadishu and Djibouti, as part of an ambitious plan to increase the number of African destinations and enhance air connectivity between the countries of the continent.
Alliances that enhance international presence
EgyptAir’s joining Star Alliance has strengthened its international position and enabled it to expand its services through global partnerships, making it an air bridge linking Africa with Europe, Asia and the Americas through a wide network of joint flights.
EgyptAir: A continuing legacy and a renewed role
After more than nine decades of operation, EgyptAir continues its role as one of the most important links between Egypt and Africa, preserving its historical legacy, keeping pace with the demands of the times, and affirming that the African continent will remain a key focus in its future strategy.
