There are two international airports serving Cairo: Sphinx International Airport (SPX) and Cairo International Airport (CAI). Each has its special advantages and drawbacks relative to proximity to major attractions, availability of operational facilities, and accessibility. This should be understood to facilitate your decision, whether you are a private jet crew member or just providing fact-based advice to your passengers or aircraft owner.
Proximity to landmarks and attractions
Sphinx International Airport is the closest option for visiting the Pyramids of Giza and western Cairo. Located approximately 25 miles from Tahrir Square in Cairo’s city center, it provides relatively easier access to Giza when compared to Cairo International, which is farther east.
On the other hand, Cairo International Airport, located approximately (13 miles) from the city center, is better suited for travelers focused on downtown Cairo or connecting international flights.
In a nutshell, for tourists for whom the Pyramids of Giza are the first order of business, the Sphinx is obviously better due to its proximity. However, for those who have business meetings or stay within the heart of Cairo, CAI grants easier and quicker access to the central areas.
Operational simplicity and infrastructure
SPX, with one runway and an apron, is much more straightforward in terms of infrastructure than CAI. This ensures a shorter taxiing time, and operators have shorter turnaround times. Pilots and ground crews hardly feel congestion, making operating on a smaller scale practical.
On the other hand, Cairo International Airport has several runways and aprons, although the total distance of taxiing can reach up to 3.5 miles (around 20 or more minutes). This may complicate some aspects of operation and increase the time and cost for operators.
One of Cairo International’s main strengths is its comprehensive infrastructure: modern maintenance facilities allow major repairs and technical problems to be overcome in a very professional manner. For operators with extensive fleets or those plagued by technical issues, CAI’s solid support system greatly reduces disruptions.
In contrast, Sphinx International lacks dedicated maintenance facilities, making it harder to address issues quickly. Furthermore, returning to the aircraft can be logistically challenging once crews exit the airport premises – a significant drawback during emergencies.
Handling and operational costs
While charges may vary according to the services required on the date of each flight, it’s always helpful to understand the possible costs of a private jet operation when using either CAI or SPX.
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
- Landing (day): $103.00 per flight
- Landing (night): $141.00 per flight
- Equipment charge (with passengers): $500.00 per flight
- Landing permit: $50.00 per flight
- Supervision: $250.00 per flight
- Total estimated cost: $1044.00
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
- Landing (day): $191.36 per flight
- Landing (night): $239.20 per flight
- Equipment charge (with passengers): $900.00 per flight
- Landing permit: $50.00 per flight
- Supervision: $250.00 per flight
- Total estimated cost: $1630.56
Driving distance and times
Depending on where you want to go and at what time, your driving experience in Cairo can vary tremendously. Here is an outline of driving distances to the city center and Giza, and what times to avoid heavy traffic.
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
Distance to Cairo city center: It is about 30 miles from Tahrir Square, considered the city’s heart. Travel time is at least 60 minutes by car, via the Nile Corniche, depending on current traffic conditions. The weekend in Egypt is Friday and Saturday, while peak traffic times in Cairo are 8-10 am and 4-6 pm.
Distance to Giza: About 23 miles and takes 40 minutes by car, without traffic, via Alexandria Desert Rd.
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Distance to Cairo city center: It is about 13 miles from Tahrir Square, and it should take about 35 minutes, via Airport Rd and El-Orouba without traffic, though it can extend to about an hour during rush hour – 8-10 am and 4-6 pm.
Distance to Giza: The driving distance is approximately 33 miles, and it generally takes more than one hour by car via Ring Rd and Route 75M without traffic.
Advantages and disadvantages of each airport
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
Pros
- Proximity to Giza: Convenient for tourists visiting the Pyramids and western Cairo.
- Simpler operations: One runway and an apron mean quicker taxiing and minimal delays.
- Reduced congestion: Less air and ground traffic compared to CAI.
Cons
- No maintenance facilities: Very limited capability to resolve technical issues onsite.
- Military-civilian hybrid: Operations may be limited due to its dual nature.
- Limited infrastructure: Not suitable for large-scale or cargo operations.
- Accessibility issues post-exit: Aircraft accessibility by crews is challenging after exiting the premises.
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Pros
- Closer to the city center than SPX.
- Comprehensive infrastructure: Several runways and aprons accommodate large-scale operations as well above the wing and below the wing services for private jets.
- 24/7 operations.
- Maintenance: Facilities for aircrfat mechanical emergencies are available.
- Crew access: Accessibility for crews returning to aircraft if needed and for preparing fights.
Cons
- Farther from Giza: Access to Western destinations like the Pyramids takes longer due to distance and heavy traffic.
- Congestion: Heavy air and ground traffic might involve delays.
- Long taxi times: Up to 20-minute taxi times create less fuel efficiency and disrupt scheduling, and apron and may require a reposition after the passenger deplane.
- Handling and operational costs are among the highest in the country.
The verdict: Which airport should I choose?
Just as there’s the right aircraft for each private jet operation, depending on the travel needs and the travel group’s requirements, either SPX or CAI could be the most suitable airport option in Cairo. The main decision driver will most likely be whether proximity to the attractions in Giza or the city center in Cairo is more important, as well as considering every advantage and disadvantage from an operational perspective of that decision.
At Icarus Jet, with abundant experience supporting our crews and passengers in Cairo and throughout Egypt, we can support with obtaining landing permits and clarifying any questions you may have for your next trip to beautiful Cairo.
FAQs
1. Which airport in Cairo is closer to the Pyramids of Giza?
Sphinx International Airport is much closer to Giza, lying about 23 miles away. Hence, it is the best option in the capital when planning to visit the Pyramids.
2. Does Sphinx International Airport have maintenance facilities?
No, Sphinx International does not have maintenance facilities, which could be a problem for some operators if there are any technical issues.
3. Which airport in Cairo is best for accessing the city center?
Due to its proximity with the city center (13 miles), Cairo International Airport is the best option. Yet considering the traffic hours, between 8-10 am and 4-6pm, is highly advisable. Also, the weekend in Egypt usually starts on Friday and extends until Saturday.
4. How much is the taxi time in Cairo International?
The time taken to taxi to Cairo International would be about 20 minutes for a distance of 3.5 miles since this airport is quite large and the inflow of traffic is greater when compared to other airports in the country.
5. What are the average costs when operating a private jet in Cairo’s airports?
The final estimated cost in US dollars for landing fees, equipment charges and supervisions charges, among others, is roughly $1050 for Sphinx International while for Cairo International it is $1630.
