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
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Abu Rudeis Airport (AUE) is a regional aviation facility located on the southwestern coast of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, serving the industrial city of Abu Rudeis. Situated along the Gulf of Suez, the airport primarily supports the vital oil and gas sector in the region, managing a steady flow of corporate charters, government flights, and logistics for the surrounding offshore platforms. The terminal features a compact, integrated building that is designed for efficiency and passenger comfort in the harsh desert climate.
Inside the terminal, travelers can find a range of essential amenities. The facility is fully air-conditioned and provides comfortable seating areas, a small cafeteria serving traditional Egyptian refreshments, and a canteen for staff and contract workers. While the airport does not house extensive international duty-free malls, a small gift shop is typically available offering local souvenirs and press. The terminal is equipped with modern elevators and provides free Wi-Fi access for passengers transiting through the departures hall.
Operational efficiency at Abu Rudeis is anchored by its 6,562-foot asphalt runway, which is well-maintained to handle regional turboprops and private jets. Security and safety procedures are managed by the Egyptian civil aviation authorities, with a focus on supporting the high volume of Petroleum Air Services (PAS) flights. Despite its industrial focus, the terminal provides a professional and organized environment for guests transitioning to the Red Sea coast or the nearby Saint Catherine's Monastery, significantly reducing the travel time compared to the long overland desert drives from Cairo or Sharm El Sheikh.
๐ Connection Tips
Abu Rudeis Airport (AUE) serves as a specialized gateway for the industrial and historic sites of the Sinai Peninsula. For travelers, 'connecting' at AUE is a localized experience because the facility handles domestic charter flights. Most arrivals are operated by Petroleum Air Services (PAS) connecting Abu Rudeis with Cairo (CAI). If your plans require an international carrier, you will almost certainly need to travel to Cairo first. It is recommended to allow at least 3 to 4 hours for this transfer in the capital to ensure a smooth transition through security checkpoints.\n\nGround transportation to central Abu Rudeis is integrated with the local industrial infrastructure. Taxis are usually available to meet announced charter arrivals, but it is highly recommended to pre-arrange your pickup through your host, as on-demand services can be inconsistent. For those seeking to explore the coast, car rental can be arranged with prior notice, though many prefer private company shuttles. The drive from the airport to the city center is fast, typically taking less than 15 minutes via the coastal highway.\n\nTravelers should arrive at the terminal at least 90 minutes before scheduled departure to assist with manual baggage processing. The terminal environment provides essential comfort but lacks extensive retail or ATM services, so it is vital to carry sufficient Egyptian Pounds (EGP) in cash for local expenses. Sinai weather can be extreme, with high temperatures impacting operations; always maintain close contact with PAS for real-time updates. If you have an extended layover, the nearby coastal views of the Gulf of Suez offer a unique landscape. For missed connections, the airline service counters are located in the main lobby to provide logistical support.
โ Back to El Nouzha Airport