EgyptAir is embarking on a significant expansion of its transatlantic operations, having officially submitted applications to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to initiate new nonstop flights from Cairo to two key North American cities: Chicago and Los Angeles. This strategic move, if approved, will elevate the Egyptian flag carrier's U.S. network to five destinations, marking a pivotal moment for African aviation and creating fresh avenues for the continent's travel industry to connect with vital gateways in North America's Midwest and West Coast.

The airline's applications detail plans to launch service to Los Angeles by May 2026, followed by Chicago in June 2026. EgyptAir has strongly urged the DOT to grant swift approvals, underscoring the critical need to facilitate early marketing efforts and advance ticket sales for both routes. As a proud member of the Star Alliance, EgyptAir emphasizes that these impending connections will provide “significant new transportation options for passengers and shippers,” further solidifying its integral role as a bridge linking Africa, the Middle East, and North America.

This expansion transcends mere destination additions; it represents a calculated strategy to position EgyptAir as a dominant player in forging connections between regions that have historically lacked direct air links. For African travel professionals, this development ushers in a new era of accessibility and partnership opportunities, particularly as the demand for seamless travel between Africa and the United States continues its upward trajectory.

EgyptAir's journey in the U.S. market commenced in 1986 with its inaugural flights to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Since then, the airline has progressively broadened its North American footprint, introducing services to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) in 2019 and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in 2023. Currently, EgyptAir operates daily flights to JFK utilizing a combination of Boeing 777-300ERs and 787-9 Dreamliners, alongside twice-weekly flights to EWR and three times weekly to IAD, both serviced by 787-9 aircraft. The carrier's North American network also encompasses a five-times-weekly route to Toronto Pearson International Airport, underscoring its steadfast commitment to serving key transatlantic markets.

Comprehensive market data illuminates the considerable opportunity these new routes present. In 2024, the total U.S.-Egypt origin and destination (O&D) traffic reached approximately 760,000 two-way passengers, experiencing a marginal dip of about 6% from the preceding year. The Cairo-New York corridor remains the busiest, accounting for 225,000 passengers, followed by Cairo-Washington (80,000), Cairo-Los Angeles (58,400), and Cairo-Chicago (35,400). The introduction of direct flights to Chicago and Los Angeles is projected to stimulate further demand, streamlining the movement of travelers and cargo between Africa and the U.S. heartland and West Coast.

For stakeholders within the African travel industry, these developments signify more than just new flight options—they herald a shift in the competitive landscape. EgyptAir's expansion is expected to encourage other African carriers to explore similar transatlantic ventures, particularly as the continent's aviation sector matures and strives to capture a larger share of global air traffic. This move also aligns with broader industry trends, where airlines are increasingly targeting secondary U.S. cities to tap into nascent markets and diversify their revenue streams.

EgyptAir’s current fleet, as reported by the CAPA Fleet Database, comprises 64 aircraft in service, including eight 787-9s, five 777-300ERs, four A330-200s, and four A330-300s. The airline is also proactively preparing for the future with a firm order for 16 A350-900s, signaling its clear intent to maintain a modern, fuel-efficient fleet capable of sustaining long-haul growth. This significant investment in next-generation aircraft will be instrumental as EgyptAir endeavors to deliver a highly competitive product on these new U.S. routes, promising passengers enhanced comfort and reliability.

The strategic importance of Chicago and Los Angeles cannot be overstated. Chicago functions as a pivotal hub for business, culture, and logistics across the American Midwest, while Los Angeles stands as a global gateway to the Pacific Rim and a powerful magnet for tourism, entertainment, and trade. By establishing direct links to these influential cities, EgyptAir is not only catering to growing diaspora and business communities but also strategically positioning itself as a preferred carrier for travelers connecting between Africa, the Middle East, and North America.

For Africa’s travel sector, the implications are extensive. The new routes will facilitate easier access to the U.S. for both leisure and business travelers, foster new tourism flows, and generate opportunities for collaboration with American partners. They also offer African tour operators, hospitality providers, and destination marketers a fresh platform to promote the continent’s diverse attractions to a broader audience. As EgyptAir strengthens its U.S. presence, African travel professionals must be prepared to leverage these connections, develop tailored products, and anticipate shifts in traveler preferences and expectations.

Looking ahead, EgyptAir’s U.S. expansion is likely to catalyze further innovation and heightened competition within the African aviation market. As more carriers explore direct long-haul routes and invest in contemporary fleets, the continent’s connectivity with the rest of the world is set to improve significantly. This evolution will necessitate travel industry professionals to remain agile, embrace emerging technologies, and cultivate strategic partnerships that can consistently deliver value to both African and international travelers. In conclusion, EgyptAir’s planned nonstop flights from Cairo to Chicago and Los Angeles represent a bold and forward-thinking step for African aviation, bridging new markets and substantially enhancing global connectivity, thereby expanding not only the airline's own horizons but also opening doors for the entire African travel sector to flourish in an increasingly interconnected world.