Cairo International Airport (CAI) Travel Guide
An independent guide to terminals, arrivals, visas and getting into the city
Cairo International Airport at a glance
Cairo International Airport (IATA: CAI, ICAO: HECA) is Egypt's main international gateway, located in Heliopolis about 15–20 km north-east of downtown Cairo. It has three passenger terminals and is the hub of EgyptAir. This independent guide explains terminals, arrival and visa steps, and how to get to downtown Cairo, Giza and New Cairo.
Last verified: . For live flights and official notices, use the Cairo Airport Company website.
| IATA / ICAO code | CAI / HECA |
|---|---|
| Location | Heliopolis, north-east Cairo, Egypt |
| Passenger terminals | Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3 |
| Main airline hub | EgyptAir (Star Alliance) |
| Distance to downtown (Tahrir Sq.) | About 15–20 km by road |
| Time zone | Egypt time (UTC+2; UTC+3 during summer time) |
Quick answers
What are the airport codes for Cairo International Airport?
Cairo International Airport uses the IATA code CAI and the ICAO code HECA. It is Egypt's busiest airport and the main hub of EgyptAir.
Where is Cairo International Airport located?
The airport is in Heliopolis, in north-east Cairo, roughly 15 to 20 km from Tahrir Square in downtown Cairo. Journey time by road ranges widely with traffic, typically 30 to 60 minutes or more.
How many passenger terminals does Cairo Airport have?
There are three main passenger terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Terminal 3 is the main base for EgyptAir and Star Alliance partners. Always confirm your terminal with your airline before travelling, as allocations change.
Can I get a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport?
Many nationalities can buy a visa on arrival or apply in advance for an e-Visa. Eligibility and fees change, so check the official Egypt e-Visa portal before you fly.
Where can I check live flight status for Cairo Airport?
This guide does not publish live flight data. Use the official Cairo Airport Company website or your airline's flight status page for real-time arrivals and departures.