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
Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE), recently renamed Alexandria International Airport, is the primary aviation gateway for Alexandria and Egypt's northern coast. Located approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Alexandria's city center, the airport replaced the older El Nouzha Airport in 2010 to become the region's main commercial hub. The original terminal, famous for its distinct boat-shaped design, has recently been supplemented by a massive new Terminal 2. This expansion has significantly increased the airport's capacity to 6 million passengers annually, reflecting its role as a vital link for international tourism and the growing industrial sectors of the Nile Delta.
The airport complex is organized across two main terminal buildings. Terminal 1 features a three-story layout where the ground floor manages check-in and baggage, the second floor handles arrivals and airline offices, and the third floor is dedicated to international departures and passport control. The new Terminal 2 is a state-of-the-art facility covering 40,000 square meters, incorporating eco-friendly features such as solar energy and energy-efficient cooling systems. Both terminals are equipped with telescopic jet bridges and modern security screening, ensuring a streamlined flow for both domestic and international travelers navigating the boat-shaped architectural complex.
Facilities at Borg El Arab are comprehensive and designed for international standards. Travelers can find a variety of dining options, including Abu Auf and Segafredo Cafรฉ, as well as several duty-free shops offering luxury cosmetics, tobacco, and traditional Egyptian souvenirs. For those seeking a quiet retreat, the Pearl Lounge in the international departure area provides comfortable seating and business amenities. The airport also offers essential services such as currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi. With its expanded parking areas and modernized infrastructure, the airport provides a professional and efficient entry point to the historic "Bride of the Mediterranean."
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Borg El Arab International Airport is efficient due to its modern, integrated facilities. Domestic transfers typically take under 45 minutes within the same terminal. However, manual baggage handling is common, so always verify if your luggage is through-checked. With the addition of Terminal 2, ensure you know which terminal your next flight departs from. If you are on a single ticket, your airline will manage the transfer between gates, but those on separate bookings should allow at least 2.5 hours to account for terminal navigation and security re-entry.
International connections require more buffer time for mandatory formalities. Arriving international passengers must clear immigration and customs at HBE before proceeding to domestic gates. It is recommended to allow at least 3 hours for these transfers, especially during peak travel seasons. If you are self-transferring between separate tickets, ensure a 4-hour window to reclaim baggage and re-check in. Security screening at Egyptian hubs is thorough and involves multiple checkpoints, so arriving 3 hours before an international departure is the standard recommendation.
The airport is 40 kilometers from Alexandria city center, with the drive taking approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Pre-booking a private car or using the HYPER bus is highly advised, as local taxis can be unreliable. For layovers of 6 hours or more, a trip to the Library of Alexandria or the Mediterranean waterfront is feasible. Within the airport, several premium lounges and dining options like Abu Auf offer comfortable spaces to wait. Always carry your travel documents and a printed itinerary, as security staff frequently check these at various points throughout the terminal.
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 Borg El Arab International Airport