Latest news with #SamehElHefny
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
QCAA announces second phase of Qatari initiative to shorten air routes in Egyptian airspace
Cairo: Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) announced Monday the launch of the second phase of the Qatari initiative to shorten air routes in Egyptian airspace, following the successful completion of the first phase. The announcement was made during a press conference held in Cairo, Egypt. It was addressed by Mohamed bin Faleh Al-Hajri, In Charge of Managing QCAA, Egyptian Civil Aviation Minister HE Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, and Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Egypt HE Tariq Ali Faraj Al-Ansari. The first phase of the initiative included training 35 Egyptian air traffic controllers by the Air Navigation Department of the Authority on the parallel take-off and landing system. The second phase will involve a partial redesign of Egyptian airspace and modifications to certain air routes within the Cairo Flight Information Region, with the goal of reducing the duration of overflight routes. This phase is based on a proposal prepared by a team from QCAA and Qatar's national carrier. In addition, the second phase will continue the training of Egyptian air traffic controllers on the Free Route Airspace (FRA) system, which helps reduce flight duration and increase airspace capacity. In his address at the conference, Al-Hajri stated that this initiative is one of several landmark efforts that reflect the State of Qatar's strong and ongoing commitment to advancing the civil aviation sector and fostering regional and international cooperation in this vital field. He added that the initiative to shorten air routes over Egyptian airspace is the result of fruitful and constructive collaboration between the QCAA and the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority. It aims to enhance air traffic efficiency, reduce congestion, and shorten flight times, delivering clear economic and environmental benefits. This initiative also embodies Qatar's vision of being an active partner in the global development of air navigation systems and reaffirms the country's dedication to achieving sustainability in the aviation industry and reducing carbon emissions, in line with the priorities and objectives of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Al-Hajri also highlighted the initiative's positive impact on both travelers and airlines by cutting flight durations, improving travel efficiency, reducing delays and wait times, and ultimately enhancing the overall quality of service and passenger satisfaction. He concluded by expressing his appreciation to the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority for their constructive cooperation, swift responsiveness, and shared commitment to the success of this pioneering initiative - a reflection of the strong ties between the two nations and a clear demonstration of a shared determination to achieve greater integration in the civil aviation sector. He further emphasized that QCAA will continue pursuing similar initiatives with a number of regional and international partners, with the goal of ensuring safe and efficient air navigation across key global transit zones and reinforcing Qatar's position as a leading international hub for civil aviation. HE Egyptian Civil Aviation Minister Dr. Sameh El-Hefny affirmed the strength of relations and cooperation between Egypt and the State of Qatar in the field of civil aviation, noting that they represent a model of regional integration based on mutual respect and mutual understanding. His Excellency explained that this cooperation between the two countries is based on the bilateral air transport agreement, supported by several memoranda of understanding related to increasing passenger and air cargo flights and facilitating access to Egyptian airports, in line with the growth of air traffic. The Egyptian Civil Aviation Minister added that this project is a strategic step towards strengthening the infrastructure of Egyptian airspace, enhancing Egypt's position as a regional hub for aviation traffic, and simultaneously supporting the country's sustainable environmental efforts in the aviation sector. His Excellency expressed Egypt's aspiration for further cooperation with the State of Qatar in the areas of aviation safety, technical training, and expertise exchange, which would contribute to enhancing sustainable growth and modernizing operational mechanisms in the aviation sector in both countries. He expressed his hope that this meeting would yield fruitful results that would pave the way for a broader and deeper partnership in the field of civil aviation between the two sides. HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Egypt and Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the League of Arab States Tariq Ali Faraj Al-Ansari expressed the State of Qatar's keenness on strengthening cooperation with the Arab Republic of Egypt, particularly in the civil aviation sector, praising the continuous development of Egypt's infrastructure. His Excellency also affirmed Qatar's readiness to enhance joint coordination in technical and regulatory fields, noting that Egypt represents the heart of the Arab world and enjoys a pivotal position at the regional and international levels. HE Al-Ansari stated that the initiative to shorten air routes is not limited to operational aspects only but also contributes to strengthening ties between the two peoples and increasing air, commercial, and tourism traffic, reflecting a shared will to build an effective model for cooperation in the field of air navigation. The initiative aims to enhance Qatar's role in the fields of air transport and environmental sustainability, while highlighting its contribution to the improvement and development of global air navigation. The project is also intended to serve as a model for similar initiatives in Africa, India, and Southeast Asia, aiming to shorten air routes and generate significant economic savings for airlines. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt: El-Sisi orders airport development push, eyes PPPs for Hurghada airport by end-2025
Arab Finance: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi directed proceeding with the development of airports, in addition to offering Hurghada Airport for public-private partnerships (PPPs) by the end of 2025, Spokesman for the Presidency Mohamed El-Shennawy announced. During his meeting with Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny and Chairperson of EgyptAir In-Flight Services Soheir Abdullah, El-Sisi reviewed plans to enhance the civil aviation sector in line with the state's objectives to raise the number of tourists to 30 million. He followed up on the latest developments of air navigation, aircraft fleet, airport upgrades, and enhancement of human resource capabilities. For his part, El-Hefny outlined the national strategy to involve the private sector in airport operations, based on an agreement signed with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in March 2025. Scheduled to be completed by the end of summer 2025, the strategy aims to integrate the private sector in the operation and development of Egyptian airports. This will improve civil aviation performance, boost operational efficiency, enhance service quality for travelers, and attract private investment and high operational expertise to develop 11 major airports, while ensuring these vital assets remain publicly owned. El-Hefny also touched on the 'New Republic Air Gateway' project, which covers establishing a new passenger terminal as per the latest international standards, with a capacity of no less than 30 million passengers. Complying with the safety, security, and environmental sustainability standards, the project would raise the airport's annual capacity to more than 60 million passengers. The development of Egyptian airports falls within the framework of Egypt Vision 2030, which seeks to transform airports into advanced regional hubs operating under the latest global operational systems. This plan is expected to secure an attractive investment environment that ensures economic feasibility and sustainable development. Additionally, the meeting addressed the air navigation file, highlighting the international recognition of Egypt's air traffic control system, particularly amid the recent crisis in the Middle East and the closure of airspace in neighboring countries. These circumstances resulted in a surge in air traffic over Egyptian airspace to more than 1,600 flights daily. Finally, they discussed EgyptAir's fleet renewal plan, aiming to reach 97 aircraft by fiscal year (FY) 2028/2029, boosting its competitiveness and enhancing the travel experience. © 2020-2023 Arab Finance For Information Technology. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
14-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
SITA opens first regional hub in Middle East with new command center in Cairo
Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, inaugurated SITA's new command center in Cairo—its first regional hub in the Middle East and Africa—marking a key milestone in Egypt's strategy to become a digital leader in the global aviation industry. The launch of the center aligns with the Ministry of Civil Aviation's broader vision to accelerate digital transformation and position Egypt as a regional hub for both aviation and information technology. SITA, the global IT provider for the air transport industry, began operations at the Cairo center in September 2024. Speaking at the inauguration, Minister El-Hefny said the new facility reflects SITA's confidence in Egypt's investment climate and underscores the country's growing appeal as a destination for high-tech, high-impact investments. He noted that the center will not only enhance the region's aviation digital infrastructure but will also generate high-quality job opportunities and foster partnerships with universities to develop a new generation of aviation IT professionals. He also highlighted the Ministry's commitment to fostering effective public-private partnerships that support Egypt's ambition to lead in innovation, technology, and digital services across the region. El-Hefny praised the ongoing collaboration between SITA and EgyptAir, which has already led to the implementation of advanced digital solutions aimed at enhancing operational performance and passenger experience. Among these are SITA Connect Go, a next-generation infrastructure that delivers responsive and scalable connectivity, and the Community DCS system, which streamlines departure processes and improves airline efficiency. The minister emphasized that investing in technology is 'the investment of the era,' adding that Egypt has the infrastructure, talent, and vision to become a global gateway for innovation in aviation. He affirmed the Egyptian government's commitment to creating a secure, supportive investment environment to attract top international firms, pointing to SITA's expansion as a model of successful global partnership. Selim Bouri, SITA's President for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, described the new command center as a 'significant milestone' in the company's historic relationship with Egypt, which began in 1954. He explained that Egypt's strategic location, supportive investment climate, and abundance of skilled talent were key factors behind the decision to establish the regional hub in Cairo. 'Digital transformation is the driving force behind the future of air transport,' said Bouri. 'With this center, we reaffirm our commitment to deepening our collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and EgyptAir. Together, we aim to develop the region's digital infrastructure and enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers worldwide.' Bouri added that the launch represents both the continuation of a decades-long partnership and a new starting point for expanded cooperation. He emphasized SITA's dedication to supporting Egypt's development goals by investing in local talent, empowering youth, and contributing to the creation of a world-class digital ecosystem. Founded in 1949, SITA is a global leader in air transport technology. The company provides integrated digital solutions for airports, airlines, and governments, with a focus on improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability across the aviation sector. SITA supports operations at over 1,000 airports worldwide, serves more than 2,500 customers, and offers border management solutions to over 70 governments. Its expansive network spans more than 200 countries and regions, playing a critical role in the digital transformation of global air travel. © 2024 Daily News Egypt. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Daily News Egypt
CairoScene
25-02-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Veteran Aviator Ahmed Adel Reappointed as EgyptAir Holding Chairman
Adel first joined EgyptAir as a pilot in 1988, later rising through the ranks at the Civil Aviation Authority. Feb 25, 2025 Minister of Civil Aviation Dr. Sameh El Hefny has appointed Pilot Ahmed Adel as Chairman of the Board and Executive Managing Director of EgyptAir Holding Company, marking his return to the airline's leadership. Adel succeeds Engineer Yehia Zakaria, who was recognised for his contributions during his tenure. With over 30 years in aviation, Adel first joined EgyptAir as a pilot in 1988, later rising through the ranks to become a flight instructor, examiner, and inspector for the Civil Aviation Authority. He has held several key leadership roles within the company, including Vice Chairman of EgyptAir Holding, Head of Air Operations, and Chairman from 2018 to 2020. During his previous tenure as Chairman, Adel was elected to the IATA Board of Governors in 2018 and later became the first Egyptian member of the IATA Presidential Board, a prestigious recognition in global aviation. His return to EgyptAir comes at a critical time for the airline, with expectations that his strategic leadership and industry expertise will drive growth, modernisation and international expansion.
Egypt Today
15-02-2025
- Business
- Egypt Today
Aviation min. discusses industry challenges at 'WGS' high-level panel discussion in Dubai
Carbon mission - file CAIRO - 15 February 2025: Egyptian Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El Hefny said the civil aviation industry is facing major challenges, including climate change, which calls for cutting carbon emissions, enhancing infrastructure, and raising the skills of human cadres in this vital industry to keep pace with the rapid growth in global air traffic. The minister made the remarks while participating in a high-level panel discussion on how to address civil aviation challenges and enhance the industry's sustainability. The session was held on the margins of the 12th edition of the World Governments Summit (WGS), which took place in Dubai on February 11-13 under the theme: "Shaping Future Governments." Asserting the importance of boosting public-private partnerships to achieve the sustainable development goals in the aviation sector, Hefny said the ministry is currently working on developing comprehensive strategies to ensure continued growth and sustainability. He said his ministry's participation in the global event demonstrates its interest in broadening prospects of international cooperation and sharing relevant experiences. A great host of global civil aviation leaders participated in the discussion, including President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council Salvatore Sciachitano, ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, ministers of transport and civil aviation from various countries, heads of civil aviation authorities, and representatives of relevant international organizations. The summit explored major global transformations and their associated opportunities and challenges across various sectors. Through comprehensive dialogues, it supported the development of joint strategies and visions to enhance government work and strengthen international cooperation, ultimately aiming to accelerate development and prosperity worldwide.
