ECAA

The Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA), under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is the regulatory body responsible for the oversight, control, and licensing of all aeronautical activities within Egyptian airspace. Its jurisdiction encompasses aircraft certification, flight crew licensing, and the oversight of both operational safety and security against acts of unlawful interference at all airports across the country, including Cairo (CAI), Hurghada (HRG), and Sharm El-Sheikh (SSH). The ECAA operates in compliance with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The ECAA requires full transparency in airfares (All-in Pricing):

• Disclosure: The advertised final price must include departure fees, taxes, and fuel surcharges.
• Carry-on Baggage: The ECAA stipulates that essential personal items (small handbags, laptops) cannot be charged separately if they fall within standard dimensions (typically 55x40x20cm).
• Liability: In the event of loss or damage, the ECAA enforces liability limits based on the Montreal Convention. Carriers are required to provide Property Irregularity Reports (PIR) on-site at the passenger service desk.

The transport of animals in Egypt is highly regulated by the ECAA in conjunction with veterinary authorities:

• Documentation: An International Veterinary Certificate and an up-to-date vaccination card (with a rabies vaccine administered at least 30 days and no more than 1 year prior) are mandatory.
• Microchip: All animals must be identified with an ISO-compliant microchip.
• Mode of Transport: The ECAA allows transport in the cabin (for small animals only) or in the hold, subject to carrier approval. The use of rigid, ventilated transport crates is strictly monitored by ECAA cargo staff.
• Prohibitions: Certain dog breeds (considered dangerous) are subject to specific entry restrictions; it is recommended to consult directly with the airline at least 72 hours in advance.

• Seating: The ECAA recommends (and most Egyptian carriers have adopted) a policy of seating a guardian next to children under 12 at no extra cost to ensure onboard safety.
• Allowance: Collapsible strollers are authorized for free carriage as essential child assistance items and may be taken to the aircraft door.
• Bassinets: Subject to availability, these must be requested at least 48 hours in advance due to the technical requirements of specific bulkhead seats.

The ECAA mandates that all airports and operators provide assistance at no extra cost to passengers with reduced mobility:

• Request: Assistance (such as wheelchair service to the aircraft or priority boarding) must be requested at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee service.
• MEDIF: For passengers with chronic medical conditions or those requiring life-support equipment (e.g., oxygen), the Medical Information Form (MEDIF) is mandatory and must be submitted to the airline's medical department.
• Priority: Passengers with disabilities have legal priority in immigration and security screening processes at all international airports in Egypt.

• Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) - Official Portal: https://civilaviation.gov.eg
• Ministry of Civil Aviation Egypt: https://www.mot.gov.eg
• ECAA - Regulations and Licensing: https://civilaviation.gov.eg/en/regulations
• Egyptian Airports Company (EAC) - Passenger Guide: https://www.eac-airports.com