EgyptAir: Cairo's Star Alliance Network, with Skytrax Awards and New Routes to the US

Nearly a Century as a Flag Carrier

EgyptAir is one of the oldest airlines still operating in the world, founded in 1932 and becoming operational the following year. In June 2025 it received the Skytrax award for best airline in Africa for passenger services, a recognition that accompanies a recent expansion into North America with new flights to Los Angeles and Chicago operated with the Airbus A350.

A Fleet Undergoing Deep Renewal

Of the 73 aircraft in the fleet, the most modern core consists of 3 Airbus A350-900s, 8 Boeing 787-9s, 8 Airbus A330s and 5 Boeing 777-300ERs for long-haul, alongside 30 Boeing 737-800s and a growing share of A320neos/A321neos and 737 MAX 8s on short and medium-haul routes. Another 34 aircraft are on order, including 16 A350-900s and 18 737 MAX 8s, a sign of one of the most ambitious fleet plans in the region.

A Network Looking Increasingly West

From Cairo, EgyptAir links Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia with the broad network typical of a regional hub, but the most recent development is the opening of direct routes to the United States with the A350, destinations previously covered only by codeshare with Star Alliance partners.

On Board, the Product of a Star Alliance Carrier

The EgyptAir Plus loyalty program lets you earn and use miles across the entire Star Alliance network, a tangible advantage for anyone who often flies in connection with other alliance members. Travel classes follow the usual pattern of a full-service scheduled carrier, with business class available on long-haul intercontinental routes.

What passengers say

The Skytrax recognition as best African airline sits alongside more cautious independent reviews on industry portals, which point in particular to delays that are not always clearly communicated and customer service judged slow in handling baggage complaints. Among the most appreciated aspects are the comfort of the new A350/787 fleet and the convenience of Star Alliance connections in Cairo for anyone traveling between Europe and Africa/Asia.

EgyptAir is a solid choice for anyone flying between Europe, Africa and the Middle East who wants to earn Star Alliance miles, or who wants to try one of the new direct links to the United States on the A350. It is less suitable for anyone with little tolerance for poor communication during operational disruptions, a point raised more often in independent reviews than in official industry awards.

If you fly the new intercontinental routes to the United States, check the aircraft type assigned to your flight when you book: not all frequencies are yet operated with the new A350, and the difference in the onboard product remains significant.