Photo by Alsyed Alsadny on PexelsHow long do I need for a layover at Cairo International (CAI)?
We recommend at least 1 hour 15 min for a comfortable connection at Cairo International. The minimum connection time is 45 minutes for domestic flights and 90 minutes for international flights. Transit between terminals takes up to 35 minutes.
What is the minimum connection time at CAI?
Domestic-to-Domestic: 45 min. Domestic-to-International: 60 min. International-to-Domestic: 60 min. International-to-International: 90 min. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell at Cairo International.
Is CAI easy to connect through?
Cairo International is EgyptAir's sprawling hub, split across three terminals that don't always connect efficiently, and transfers frequently require a shuttle bus ride plus a full re-screening through immigration-adjacent security. Connections within Terminal 3 (EgyptAir's main hub terminal) are manageable, but anything routing through Terminal 1 or between terminals should be treated with caution and generous buffer time. Terminal 3 is the newest and largest, housing most EgyptAir flights and having its own internal transfer area for same-terminal connections. Moving between Terminal 1/2 and Terminal 3 requires a shuttle bus that runs on a schedule rather than continuously, and passengers must clear security screening again on arrival at the new terminal along with a passport check for international transfers.
Is 30 minutes enough for a layover at CAI?
Still well under the domestic-domestic minimum connecting time at CAI. See full 30 min guide →
Is 45 minutes enough for a layover at CAI?
Matches the bare minimum MCT for a same-terminal domestic-domestic connection with zero room for delay. See full 45 min guide →
Is 1 hour enough for a layover at CAI?
Meets the international connection MCT but leaves little slack if a shuttle bus is required. See full 1 hr guide →
Is 1 hour 15 min enough for a layover at CAI?
Comfortable for most same-terminal transfers and workable for many terminal-change connections. See full 1¼ hr guide →
Is 1½ hours enough for a layover at CAI?
Covers the international-international MCT with a reasonable buffer for re-screening. See full 1½ hr guide →
Is 2 hours enough for a layover at CAI?
Comfortable buffer for any terminal combination at CAI, including peak-hour congestion. See full 2 hr guide →
Is 2½ hours enough for a layover at CAI?
Very safe margin, allowing for shuttle delays and long security queues. See full 2½ hr guide →
Is 3 hours enough for a layover at CAI?
Generous connection time with room to spare even during the busiest arrival banks. See full 3 hr guide →
Is 4 hours enough for a layover at CAI?
Well beyond any realistic need, ideal if flights are running the risk of delay. See full 4 hr guide →