The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released a study highlighting the substantial economic and employment benefits of aviation in Egypt. The study, which was based on 2023 figures, reveals that aviation contributes significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and supports a substantial number of jobs. According to the study, aviation generates USD 21.1 billion of economic activity, which is equivalent to 5.3% of Egypt’s GDP. This economic activity includes not only the direct employment of airline staff but also the wider supply chain, employee spending, and tourism activities. The study also highlights the significant employment benefits of aviation in Egypt. With 1.4 million jobs supported across the supply chain and including tourism, aviation plays a critical role in the country’s employment landscape. Of these jobs, 32,800 are directly employed by airlines. In addition to the economic and employment benefits, aviation also contributes to Egypt’s GDP through the handling of air cargo. The study reveals that 338,600 tonnes of air cargo were handled in 2023. Aviation is a key contributor to Egypt’s economy, and the Egyptian government is using the aviation sector as a strategic enabler for its economic and social development. The government’s commitment to continued collaboration with IATA is encouraging, as it aims to further expand aviation’s benefits to Egypt.
Key Priorities for Egypt
To maximize the benefits of aviation, IATA has identified three key priorities for Egypt:
• **Cost-Efficiency**: The Egyptian government should collaborate with airline users and adhere to global best practices to avoid unnecessary financial burdens on airlines and passengers. • **Sustainability**: Egypt’s collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to produce 120,000 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually is a positive step towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions in aviation by 2050. • **Capacity-Building**: A strong and skilled aviation workforce is critical to growing aviation’s benefits. The government should invest in technical operations, digital transformation, and sustainable practices to strengthen safety, efficiency, and long-term resilience.
Quote from Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa and Middle East
“Aviation is a key contributor to Egypt’s economy.
