โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Capital International Airport (CCE), also identified by its ICAO code HECP, is a modern international airport serving Egypt's ambitious New Administrative Capital, located approximately 45 kilometers east of central Cairo. Operating since 2020, this airport is a cornerstone of Egypt's national development strategy, designed to alleviate congestion at Cairo International Airport and to enhance connectivity for both domestic and international travelers to the burgeoning new capital region. It plays a critical role in facilitating government, business, and tourism activities.
The airport features a modern passenger terminal capable of handling up to 1 million passengers annually, with potential for future expansion. The main terminal building, spanning 5,000 square meters, is equipped with 45 check-in counters and a variety of essential services. While the terminal focuses on efficient processing, travelers can expect comfortable waiting areas and basic amenities. The design prioritizes functionality and passenger flow, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for those transiting through this strategically important facility.
Operational infrastructure at CCE includes eight aircraft parking stands and a robust air control tower. The airport boasts long runways, measuring 3,650 meters, capable of accommodating large aircraft and equipped with advanced lighting and automatic landing systems. Ground transportation options to the New Administrative Capital and broader Cairo area are available via taxis and private transfers. The airport's advanced capabilities and strategic location underscore its importance as a key gateway to Egypt's future capital, supporting its economic growth and international profile.
๐ Connection Tips
Capital International Airport (CCE), officially HECP, is Egypt's state-of-the-art gateway designed to serve the New Administrative Capital (NAC). Because it is located approximately 45 kilometers east of Cairo, "connecting" here requires a clear understanding of the logistics between CCE and the older Cairo International Airport (CAI). The two airports are about 50 kilometers apart, and a transfer typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, given Cairoโs notoriously unpredictable traffic, it is highly recommended to allow a minimum buffer of 3 to 4 hours for any flight connections involving a terminal or airport change.
Currently, there is no direct metro or dedicated air-rail link connecting CCE and CAI. The most efficient transfer method is using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem, which offer transparent pricing and are widely available. For those heading directly into the New Administrative Capital, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, known as the "Capital Train," provides a modern link between the NACโs Arts and Culture City and the Adly Mansour interchange station in Cairo.
Within the NAC, a network of electric buses connects the airport to various government and residential districts. If you are arriving on an international flight, ensure you have a local SIM or e-SIM to use transport apps, as airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable. Additionally, keep small denominations of Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for tolls and tipping, and be prepared for thorough security screenings which are standard at Egypt's newer high-security facilities.
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) is no longer the airport travelers should be using for Alexandria-area commercial service. That was already true for years, but the position is even clearer now because Alexandria Governorate announced in August 2025 that Borg El Arab International Airport would be renamed Alexandria International Airport effective 4 September 2025, reinforcing Borg El Arab as the region's primary commercial gateway. In practical terms, anyone planning an Alexandria connection should treat ALY as historical reference only and build the itinerary around the renamed Borg El Arab airport instead.
That matters because outdated airport names and old booking references can still create confusion. If a traveler sees 'Alexandria International' in older material, they need to confirm whether the source is talking about the closed El Nouzha field or the renamed Borg El Arab facility. As of the 2025 renaming, the commercial answer is the latter.
If your final destination is central Alexandria, the real planning question is how you will transfer from the active airport to the city, not how to connect through ALY. That means protecting the road time from Borg El Arab and being realistic about traffic, especially if you are connecting onward by rail, cruise, or another domestic service.
ALY therefore should not be treated as a live commercial connection airport. The best connection tip here is a corrective one: book and plan for Alexandria's active airport, not the closed historical one, and verify airport names carefully when comparing itineraries or older travel information. Please ensure that all your onward travel arrangements, including ground transport to your final destination, are confirmed well in advance. Our research indicates that regional transit in this area is highly weather-dependent and requires travelers to remain flexible with their schedules. Always confirm your flight status 24 hours prior to departure, carry your essential medications and critical documents in your hand baggage, and maintain open lines of communication with your local hosts or transport providers. By treating this airport segment as the foundation of your regional travel plan rather than the conclusion of your flight, you will find that it is a highly reliable gateway, provided you account for the unique pace of local transport and the seasonal variability of the local environment, which can often be unpredictable due to sudden meteorological shifts or technical logistics.
โ Back to Capital International Airport