โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
80
minutes
International โ Domestic
80
minutes
International โ International
95
minutes
Interline Connections
125
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Cairo International Airport operates three main terminals connected by shuttle buses and people movers. Terminal 3 is the largest and most modern facility, handling the majority of international traffic including EgyptAir and most foreign carriers. Terminal 2 serves some regional and charter flights, while Terminal 1 primarily handles domestic and limited international services. Inter-terminal transfers require exiting to landside and using shuttle buses, which can take 15-30 minutes including wait times.
Terminal 3 spans multiple levels with check-in on the ground floor and departures on the upper level. Security screening is centralized after check-in, with separate checkpoints for domestic and international flights. Wait times can vary significantly, ranging from 15 minutes during off-peak hours to 45 minutes or more during busy periods, particularly for international departures. The terminal features extensive duty-free shopping and multiple dining options once airside.
Walking distances within Terminal 3 are considerable โ gates can be up to 15-20 minutes from security, especially for the furthest international departure gates. Moving walkways help along some corridors, but passengers should budget adequate time. Immigration for international arrivals and departures is handled through dedicated checkpoints, with separate lines for Egyptian nationals, EU/GCC citizens, and other foreign nationals. Visa on arrival services are available for eligible nationalities.
Terminal facilities include EgyptAir lounges (Al Dhabi and Al Farsha), multiple restaurants serving Middle Eastern and international cuisine, coffee shops, and extensive duty-free shopping. The Pearl Lounge and Le Meridien Airport Hotel provide premium services for travelers. Currency exchange and ATM services are available in all terminals. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, though connection quality may vary.
Accessibility features include wheelchair assistance upon request, accessible restrooms, and elevator access between levels. Family facilities include baby changing rooms and prayer rooms (separate for men and women) located throughout the terminals. Ground transportation options include official airport taxis, ride-sharing services, and the Airport Shuttle Bus to various Cairo destinations.
๐ Connection Tips
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is a massive and complex aviation hub serving as the primary gateway to Egypt and a critical transit point for Africa and the Middle East. Navigating connections here requires a clear understanding of the three main terminals. Terminal 3 is the exclusive hub for EgyptAir and its Star Alliance partners, while the recently renovated Terminal 2 serves major international carriers like Emirates, Air France, and Qatar Airways. Terminal 1, located approximately 1.5 kilometers away, primarily handles regional and low-cost flights.
For inter-terminal connections, the free MiniMetro (automated people mover) is the most efficient option, linking Terminal 1 with the central station serving Terminals 2 and 3. Alternatively, a free 24/7 shuttle bus circulates between all terminals every 30 minutes. If you are transiting between international flights on a through-ticket, follow the 'Connecting Flights' signs to the transfer desk; you will typically undergo a security re-check but won't need to clear immigration. However, if your connection involves a terminal change (e.g., from T1 to T3), ensure you have at least a two-hour buffer.
If you must clear immigration for a layover or a separate ticket connection, most tourists can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA). Crucially, you must visit one of the bank kiosks in the arrivals hall *before* joining the passport control queue. The visa sticker costs $25 USD and must be paid in cash (USD is preferred). Once you have the sticker, place it in your passport and proceed to immigration. After clearing customs, you will find several kiosks for local SIM cards (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat) and 24/7 ATMs. For transportation to downtown Cairo, Uber and Careem are highly recommended for reliable, fixed pricing, as negotiating with unofficial taxi drivers in the arrival hall can be difficult for first-time visitors.
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 Cairo International Airport