Cairo International Airport continues its national journey, which began with its official opening on May 18, 1963. For over six decades, it has remained Egypt's primary gateway to the world and one of the most prominent hub airports in Africa and the Middle East.
The airport's origins date back to the establishment of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority, which assumed management of airports and air facilities after the end of World War II. Among these was the former Payne Field military base, which was developed and transformed into an international civilian airport to accommodate the growing volume of air travel.
The airport was then renamed "Farouk I Airport," before being renamed "Cairo International Airport" after the July Revolution. It officially opened and became fully operational on May 18, 1963, with a capacity of approximately 5 million passengers annually.