In an exclusive interaction with Travel Mail, Mr. Amr Aly, Country Manager, EgyptAir, shares insights into shifting traffic trends, enhanced connectivity, visa facilitation measures, and the airline’s growth strategy for the Indian market in 2026 and beyond.
How has the Indian market performed so far?
We have observed a significant shift in traffic patterns. In 2024, most passengers from India used Cairo as a transit hub to Europe, North Africa, or North America. However, we are now seeing a clear increase in O&D (Origin & Destination) traffic — meaning more Indian travellers are flying directly to Egypt as their final destination.
This growth is supported by several initiatives from the Egyptian government. One major attraction is the Grand Egyptian Museum, located just 2 km from the Pyramids area. Since its inauguration last November, it has generated strong interest globally, especially from India.
Additionally, visa facilitation has played a key role. Indian citizens holding valid and previously used Schengen, US, Australian, or Japanese visas can obtain a visa on arrival in Egypt. Group travellers are also eligible for visa-on-arrival facilities. For EgyptAir passengers, visas can be processed through the embassy within 48 hours.
All these measures have contributed to noticeable growth in tourist movement between India and Egypt. We are also encouraging Egyptian travellers to visit India.
What are your key strategies for 2026 and 2027 for the Indian Market?
One of our key plans is to increase frequency from Delhi to five weekly flights instead of four, likely by the end of this year.
We are also offering a complimentary dinner cruise on the River Nile for long layover passengers in Cairo with a transit time of eight hours or more. Travellers heading to Europe or North America can explore Cairo and enjoy this experience at no additional cost, including visa facilitation.
This initiative is currently valid until the end of April, with ticketing starting in February.
In addition, we are running strong promotional campaigns — offering up to 45% discount on Economy Class and 25% on Business Class fares. With these combined efforts, we expect growth of at least 15–20% this year.
With Egypt emerging as a destination for Indian weddings and MICE, what incentives are being offered?
Yes, we are working closely with the Egyptian Tourism Authority to promote Egypt as a wedding and MICE destination. In collaboration with leading hotels such as Rixos Hotels Egypt, we are offering special group rates for wedding events.
For wedding and corporate groups, we provide competitive group fares and flexible options. Combined with the simplified visa regime and Egypt’s iconic venues, we believe Egypt is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Indian weddings and corporate events.
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