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Cairo International Airport CAI

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Cairo International Airport (CAI) Guide

Embark on your Egyptian journey through Cairo International Airport (CAI), Africa's second-busiest airport, renowned for its Pharaonic architecture blending with modern design. Our concise guide equips you with essential information, from flight updates and terminal details to dining and shopping options, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Explore our guide for a smooth transition from doorstep to departure, including terminal maps and travel tips. Make every moment count at CAI Airport.

For a detailed look at global airports, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.com.

The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 has 21 gates and is used by EgyptAir and other airlines. Terminal 2 has 7 gates and is used by EgyptAir for domestic flights. Terminal 3 has 5 gates and is used by EgyptAir for international flights.

When arriving at the airport, passengers should check their airline and terminal information on their ticket or with their airline. Each terminal has its own check-in area and security checkpoint. Passengers can move between terminals by foot or by using the airport shuttle bus, which runs every 30 minutes.

After passing through security, passengers will find a variety of shops, restaurants, and services in each terminal. Terminal 1 has the most options, including duty-free shops, cafes, and fast food restaurants. Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 have fewer options, but still offer some food and shopping choices.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At Cairo International Airport, there are three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Getting between terminals is easy, as there is a free shuttle bus that runs between them. The shuttle bus operates 24/7 and runs every 30 minutes. The journey time between terminals is approximately 20 minutes.

If you prefer to walk between terminals, it is also possible. The distance between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is around 1.5 kilometers, and the walk takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The distance between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 is around 2 kilometers, and the walk takes approximately 25-30 minutes.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At the airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside each terminal. However, it is important to note that there are strict restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for extended periods of time. This is to ensure that traffic flow is maintained and to prevent congestion at the airport.

If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, there are cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These waiting areas provide a convenient place for drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up. Once your passenger has arrived and collected their luggage, they can call you to let you know that they are ready to be picked up, and you can then proceed to the curbside area to pick them up.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at Cairo International Airport, there are several options available for travelers. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with multiple lots and garages located near the terminals. If you're picking up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas available for your convenience.

For those with disabilities, designated handicapped parking spaces are available in all parking areas. These spaces are located closest to the terminals for easy access.

If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is also available near the airport. These lots often offer lower rates than on-airport parking and may include shuttle service to and from the terminals.

Get details about CAI parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

When arriving at Cairo Airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to your destination.

If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental facilities located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. These providers offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs, from economy to luxury models.

If you would rather take a taxi, there are designated drop-off areas outside of the terminals. Fares are typically based on distance traveled, and it is recommended to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Careem, are also available at CAI. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminals, and there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.

Airport shuttles are another option for transportation. These services typically operate on a fixed schedule and offer pickup and drop-off at designated locations. Fares vary depending on the service provider and destination.

For those looking for a more affordable option, public transportation is available in the form of buses and trains. The Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus provides service to several locations in the city, while the Cairo Metro offers a convenient and affordable way to travel to various destinations throughout Cairo.

Airport Hotels

Travel can be exhausting, and finding a comfortable, convenient place to rest is crucial. Whether you're a business traveler in need of relaxation after a long flight, or a leisure traveler seeking a hotel close to local attractions, we've got you covered. Our guide provides information about top hotels near the airport, each offering unique amenities and services to meet your travel needs. From luxury hotels directly connected to the airport terminal, to serene garden settings just a short drive away, there are a variety of options to choose from. Some hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, heated outdoor pools, and well-equipped fitness centers, while others are known for their top-notch dining options, lively discotheques, and thrilling casinos. With a range of options to suit every traveler's needs, you're sure to find the perfect hotel for your stay. Ready to explore more? Check out our Airport Hotels page.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at Cairo Airport, you're in luck. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit every taste and budget. For a quick snack or coffee, head to Cinnabon or Starbucks, both located in Terminal 2. If you have more time to spare, try the Egyptian cuisine at Felfela or the international fare at Sky Lounge, both located in Terminal 3.

When it comes to shopping, CAI has plenty of options to keep you entertained. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the duty-free shops such as Aldeasa and Cairo Duty Free, both located in Terminal 3. If you're in the market for luxury items, head to the Hermes or Gucci stores, also located in Terminal 3. And if you need to stock up on reading material, visit the Book Corner in Terminal 1.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at CAI Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, explore the facilities at this link.

Passenger Services

CAI Airport offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient.

For those needing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport terminals.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the lost and found office is located in Terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.

Traveling with children? There are designated play areas in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 to keep little ones entertained.

The airport also provides special-needs services for passengers with disabilities or limited mobility. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces.

For your banking needs, there are several ATMs and currency exchange offices located throughout the airport terminals.

If you require medical assistance, there is a medical center located in Terminal 1, near the check-in area.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. Luckily, there are several ways to do so at Cairo International Airport.

One of the most convenient ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own mobile apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to their flight status.

Another way to stay updated on flight status is by checking the airline's website. This can be done by visiting the airline's website and entering your flight information, or by checking the airport's website for a list of all departing flights.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Cairo Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended to arrive at Cairo International Airport at least 3 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This will give you enough time to check-in, go through security, and locate your gate. The busiest times at the airport are during the early morning and late evening, so it's best to avoid those times if possible to reduce wait times.

Getting to the Airport

The best way to get to Cairo Airport is by taxi or private car. There are also bus and train options available, but they may not be as reliable or convenient. It's important to plan your transportation ahead of time to ensure you arrive at the airport with enough time to spare.

Getting Oriented

If you're unfamiliar with CAI, it's recommended to use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented. These maps provide a detailed layout of the airport, including the location of gates, restaurants, and other amenities. You can also use the maps to plan your route through the airport to avoid getting lost or confused.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at CAI Airport, it's important to arrive early and be prepared for security checks. Make sure you have all necessary documents and items easily accessible, and be aware of any restrictions on liquids or electronics. Additionally, be aware of any potential weather or traffic delays and plan accordingly.

Airport Facts & Stats

CAI is the primary international airport serving Cairo, Egypt. It is located about 15 kilometers northeast of the city center and is the second busiest airport in Africa, after OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is used for domestic flights, Terminal 2 is used for international flights, and Terminal 3 is used for private and VIP flights.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at CAI Airport include EgyptAir, Emirates, Saudia, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways. On average, the airport handles around 60,000 passengers daily and has about 500 daily flights.

The airport serves over 75 destinations worldwide, with the top 5 destinations being Jeddah, Dubai, Kuwait City, Riyadh, and Istanbul. The airport also serves as a hub for EgyptAir, Nile Air, and Air Cairo.

Airport History

Cairo International Airport, located in the capital city of Egypt, has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1942: The airport was first opened as a military airfield during World War II.
  • 1945: The airport was officially inaugurated for civil aviation purposes.
  • 1958: The airport underwent a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 1963: The airport saw the first-ever visit of a U.S. president, when John F. Kennedy arrived on Air Force One.
  • 1986: The airport was renamed to honor former Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, who was assassinated in 1981.
  • 2004: A new terminal building, Terminal 3, was opened to handle the increasing number of passengers.
  • 2011: The airport played a crucial role in the evacuation of foreign nationals during the Egyptian Revolution.
  • 2018: The airport underwent a massive renovation project, including the expansion of Terminal 2 and the construction of a new runway.

Today, Cairo Airport is one of the busiest airports in Africa, serving millions of passengers each year and connecting Egypt to destinations all over the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Cairo International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: CAI
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +20 2 22655000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Cairo International Airport, Oruba Road, Heliopolis, Cairo Governorate, Egypt

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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