If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the city’s main commercial airport. Travelers may also encounter Sphinx International Airport (SPX) near Giza and Capital International Airport (CCE) serving the New Administrative Capital. These are separate airports serving different parts of the wider Cairo region.
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Cairo International Airport is the principal airport serving Egypt’s capital. It is located approximately 15 kilometers northeast of central Cairo and handles both international and domestic flights. The airport has three main passenger terminals:
- Terminal 1
- Terminal 2
- Terminal 3
For most travelers whose destination is Cairo, CAI is the primary airport to consider when booking flights. Travelers looking for airport transportation can explore our Cairo airport vip services for more information.
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
Sphinx International Airport is located in the Giza area, west of Cairo. Its location makes it particularly useful for travelers visiting western Cairo and attractions around Giza. The airport was developed to increase aviation capacity in the Cairo region and provide an additional gateway for travelers visiting major tourist attractions. If your itinerary includes the Giza Pyramids or nearby attractions, SPX may be a convenient option when suitable flights are available.
Capital International Airport (CCE)
Capital International Airport serves the New Administrative Capital and surrounding areas east of Cairo. The airport is approximately 30 kilometers east of Cairo International Airport and was developed to support the growing eastern areas of the capital. For travelers staying in the New Administrative Capital, CCE can provide a more convenient arrival point than traveling from an airport on the opposite side of the metropolitan area.
Cairo Airports
| Airport | IATA Code | Location | Main Area Served |
| Cairo International Airport | CAI | Northeast Cairo | Cairo |
| Sphinx International Airport | SPX | Giza / west of Cairo | Giza and western Cairo |
| Capital International Airport | CCE | East of Cairo | New Administrative Capital |
The three airports are separate facilities. The most suitable one depends on your flight, accommodation and final destination.
Which Airport Should You Fly Into for Cairo?
For visitors staying in central Cairo, Cairo International Airport (CAI) is generally the most relevant airport. Sphinx International Airport can be useful for travelers staying around Giza or visiting attractions in western Cairo. Capital International Airport is more relevant for destinations in the New Administrative Capital and areas east of Cairo.
Your accommodation is worth considering before booking because Cairo’s metropolitan area covers a large geographic area and traffic can affect airport transfer times. If you want transportation arranged before you arrive, a private chauffeur service can provide a pre-booked transfer from the airport to your destination.
How Many Terminals Does Cairo International Airport Have?
Cairo International Airport has three main passenger terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. The terminal used for your flight depends on your airline and itinerary. Passengers should check their booking details or confirm the terminal with their airline before traveling.
Is Sphinx International Airport in Cairo?
Sphinx International Airport is a separate airport from Cairo International Airport. It is located in the Giza area, west of Cairo, and serves the wider Cairo metropolitan region. Its location makes it particularly relevant to travelers visiting Giza and attractions in western Cairo. The airport should therefore be considered when searching for flights serving the broader Cairo area rather than only Cairo city itself.
Which Cairo Airport Is Closest to the Pyramids?
Sphinx International Airport is located closer to the Giza area, making it an important airport option for travelers visiting the Pyramids. However, proximity is not the only factor to consider. Flight availability, airline schedules and your hotel location can all affect which airport is more practical for your trip.
Airport Transportation in Cairo
Getting from the airport to your hotel or other destination is an important part of planning a Cairo trip. Travelers can arrange transportation in advance instead of looking for a vehicle after landing. Before choosing your transportation, learn how to get to Cairo Airport by taxi, private car, limousine or public transportation. This can be particularly useful for international arrivals, families with luggage, business travelers and visitors arriving at busy times. For a more premium experience, our luxury car service provides another option for private ground transportation.
VIP Airport Services in Cairo
Passengers who want additional assistance at the airport may consider VIP or meet-and-greet services. Depending on the service, assistance can include help with airport procedures, navigating the terminal and coordinating ground transportation. Our guide to VIP airport services explains how airport VIP services generally work and what travelers may expect.
How Early Should You Arrive at Cairo Airport?
The amount of time you need before a flight depends on your airline, destination, baggage and airport procedures. International travelers should generally allow enough time for check-in, baggage drop, immigration and security. During busy travel periods, allowing extra time can help avoid unnecessary pressure before boarding.
Can You Travel Between Cairo’s Airports?
Yes, but Cairo International Airport, Sphinx International Airport and Capital International Airport are separate facilities. If your itinerary requires you to change from one airport to another, you will need ground transportation between them. The journey time can vary considerably depending on the airports involved and traffic conditions. When booking connecting flights that use different Cairo-area airports, leave sufficient time for transportation between airports rather than treating the journey as a normal terminal transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sphinx International Airport is located in the Giza area and is positioned to serve travelers visiting the Pyramids and other attractions in western Cairo. The exact driving distance depends on the specific entrance or destination.
Yes. Cairo International Airport handles both domestic and international operations. Domestic services may also be available through other airports depending on the route and airline.
Yes. Cairo International Airport has passenger lounges and premium airport facilities. The lounges available to you can depend on your airline, ticket class, membership or access arrangements.
Conclusion
Cairo has one principal airport within the city itself, Cairo International Airport (CAI). Travelers searching for airports serving the wider Cairo area may also find Sphinx International Airport (SPX) and Capital International Airport (CCE).
The right airport depends on your airline, flight availability and where you are staying. Checking the airport code and location before booking your transportation can help you plan your arrival more efficiently.