โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
El Nouzha Airport (ALY), historically known as Alexandria International Airport, is a significant aviation landmark situated just 7 kilometers southeast of Egypt's vibrant Mediterranean city of Alexandria. For many years, it served as the primary air gateway to this major port and cultural center, handling both domestic routes and international charters. However, in 2011, the airport ceased all commercial airline operations, a decision driven by the need to consolidate traffic and streamline services to the region's more modern facilities.
Following its closure to scheduled commercial flights, the airport's operations have been fundamentally altered. While the original terminal building remains standing, it is no longer accessible to the general public or commercial passengers. Instead, the airfield's infrastructure is now primarily utilized for private aviation, executive jet charters, and military or government flights. This limited access underscores its transition from a public transit point to a specialized facility catering to a select group of users, offering a discreet and direct entry into the Alexandria area for authorized personnel.
The operational focus of air travel to Alexandria has completely shifted to Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE). Located about 40 kilometers southwest of the city, HBE is a modern, expansive airport equipped to handle a high volume of international and domestic traffic. It features multiple terminals, advanced passenger amenities, and serves as the sole destination for all scheduled commercial airlines flying into the Alexandria governorate, including EgyptAir and various international carriers.
For any traveler planning a trip to Alexandria, it is paramount to confirm that your flight booking is for Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) and not El Nouzha (ALY). Understanding this distinction is crucial for managing your travel itinerary. While ALY retains its historical presence and remains available for specific authorized operations, all public passenger services, including check-in, security, baggage claim, and onward transportation arrangements, are exclusively handled at HBE. This ensures a consistent and modern travel experience for the vast majority of visitors to the region.
๐ Connection Tips
El Nouzha Airport (ALY), historically serving as Alexandria International Airport, is officially closed to all scheduled commercial air traffic. For travelers, the most critical connection tip is to ensure your flight is booked to Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE), which now serves as the sole commercial gateway for the Alexandria region. ALY, which traces its history back to the Royal Air Force's RAF Maryut during World War II, transitioned to permanent closure for commercial operations in 2011 to consolidate regional traffic at the more modern HBE facility.\n\nWhile some private jet charter services may still reference ALY, all scheduled airlines, including EgyptAir and various international carriers, operate exclusively from Borg El Arab, located approximately 45 to 50 kilometers southwest of Alexandria's city center. If you are arriving in the region, the most reliable way to connect to central Alexandria from the active hub at HBE is via the hourly direct bus service to the Moharam Bek Bus Station, a journey of roughly 60 minutes. Alternatively, official airport taxis operate with fixed-rate fares ranging from 250 to 550 EGP depending on your final destination and the time of day. Pre-booking a private transfer through your hotel or a reputable ride-hailing app like Uber or Careem is highly recommended to avoid negotiation and ensure a timely arrival.\n\nFor those with onward international connections from Cairo (CAI), allow at least four to five hours for the road transfer between Alexandria and the capital's main hub. The road journey via the Desert Road is well-maintained but can be subject to significant traffic during peak hours. Always double-check your IATA airport codes before travel; if your itinerary mistakenly lists ALY, contact your airline immediately to rectify the booking to HBE to avoid being denied boarding or arriving at a defunct facility.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Aswan International Airport (ASW), also known as Daraw Airport, serves as the primary aviation gateway to Southern Egypt and the historic treasures of the Nile Valley. The airport features a single passenger terminal that is architecturally inspired by Nubian heritage, creating a unique and cultural atmosphere for arriving visitors. It manages a mix of domestic flights from Cairo and other Egyptian cities, alongside a limited number of international services primarily from the Middle East.
The terminal building provides a range of modern facilities designed to accommodate international tourists. Inside, travelers can find several duty-free shops, souvenir boutiques selling local Egyptian handicrafts, and a selection of cafes and restaurants serving both traditional Egyptian and international cuisine. Essential services such as currency exchange offices, ATMs, and bank branches are centrally located in the main hall to assist with travel finances.
For premium passengers, the airport offers a dedicated VIP lounge with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments. The facility is fully accessible, featuring specialized services for travelers with reduced mobility and a dedicated medical center. Its location approximately 16 kilometers southwest of the Aswan city center provides a relatively quick and easy entry point for guests transitioning to Nile cruise vessels or taking regional flights to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel.
๐ Connection Tips
Aswan International Airport (ASW) is a vital junction for travelers exploring Upper Egypt. For travelers, 'connecting' at ASW is straightforward as all operations are consolidated within a single, well-marked terminal. If arriving on a domestic flight from Cairo and connecting to a regional flight to Abu Simbel (ABS), you can typically complete the transfer in 60 minutes. However, if your connection involves an international arrival, you must clear immigration and customs, which can take longer during the peak winter tourist season.\n\nGround transportation to the city center and Nile cruise ports is well-organized. Taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals hall, with a typical journey to downtown Aswan taking 25 minutes and costing between 150 and 250 Egyptian Pounds. It is highly recommended to negotiate the fare before starting the trip. For a more seamless experience, many high-end hotels and cruise operators provide pre-booked private transfers, where a representative will meet you. Public buses also operate a regular route to the city center, providing an economical but less direct option for visitors.\n\nTravelers should be aware that the terminal can become busy during morning arrival windows. Free Wi-Fi is available, though reliability can vary, and there are charging stations located throughout the gates. It is essential to carry some Egyptian Pounds (EGP) in cash for taxi fares and tips, as credit card acceptance is primarily restricted to larger retailers. If you have an extended layover, the nearby Aswan High Dam is a significant landmark just a short drive away. For missed connections or rebooking needs, the Egyptair and Air Cairo service desks are centrally located in the main lobby to provide assistance.
โ Back to El Nouzha Airport