São Paulo – EgyptAir’s expansion plans include nonstop Cairo-São Paulo flights. However, the major impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on tourism and air travel meant the project had to be put on hold.
The Cairo, Egypt-based carrier told ANBA that although the flight is still in the plans, the priority right now is the recovery of the airline industry from the crisis wrought by the pandemic.
“Egyptair operation to São Paulo, Brazil was among our expansion plans before the coronavirus pandemic, and still we are keen for this operation. However, we are currently assessing the economics of any new operation, and at the same time we are aiming for quick recovery for the airline industry to allow us to resume our expansion plans including Brazilian market,” the carrier said.
During a webinar hosted by the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) last month, Brazil’s ambassador to Cairo, Antonio Patriota, said that nonstop São Paulo-Cairo flights from EgyptAir would be rolling out right now, hadn’t it been for Covid-19.
Prevention
The Egyptian airline has put in place a host of safety and hygiene standards designed to protect passengers and crews. It encourages check-in via e-tickets and encourages face coverings in airports and aircrafts alike. All passengers and crew are required to get their temperatures taken upon boarding. Hand baggage is restricted to laptop computers, valuables, and baby items. EgyptAir also advises passengers to check the restrictions in place at their destination countries. All safety and prevention measures are available on the airline’s website.
About EgyptAir
Based in Cairo, Egypt, EgyptAir boasts an 81-strong fleet including 12 Embraer aircraft. It flies to 13 cities in Egypt as well as 65 international destinations. EgyptAir also flies cargo to seven different countries.
Established 1932, EgyptAir is the seventh oldest airline in the world. Operations started in 1933 with a Cairo-Alexandria flight.
In 2008, EgyptAir joined Star Alliance, the biggest airline network in the world, which enabled improved flight connections. EgyptAir is the only North African carrier in the Star Alliance network.
Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
