…not actually, but that’s what the airport seems to think it’s doing.
Last week I wrote about how I consider Cairo International Airport (CAI) to be the worst major airport in the world. That’s just my opinion, and I shared the reasons that I feel that way.
As it turns out, the government of Egypt isn’t happy about that, with this apparently having made headlines in Egypt, and the Minister of Aviation calling my claims baseless, and even threatening to take legal action against me for spreading misinformation.
The Egyptian government has now published a full story refuting my claims, and posted CCTV footage of me at the airport, to prove that I’m lying, and that my claims are baseless. The government is even arguing that I traveled to Cairo exclusively to tarnish the reputation of the airport. Anyway, grab some popcorn…
In this post:
The claims I made about Cairo Airport
To start, let’s talk about the claims that I actually made, rather than what the government is fabricating. On November 11, 2024, I published a post entitled “Cairo Airport: Is There A Worse Major Airport?”
As the title suggests, I posed the question of whether there’s a worse major international airport in the world, because based on my own travel experiences, I haven’t been to one. Now, I didn’t quantify what exactly constitutes “major” (my bad), though my thought was an airport that’s a hub for a fairly large airline, and/or which gets tens of millions of passengers per year. For what it’s worth, in the comments section, more people agreed with me than disagreed with me.
My four primary arguments about the airport were as follows (and I expand on each one in the initial post, so check that out):
- Cairo Airport staff are rude, unhelpful, and distracted
- There are endless requests for tips
- There’s zero order among passengers
- There’s nothing redeeming about the facilities
Let me emphasize a couple of points:
- My judgment of the airport wasn’t based on a single visit to the airport, but rather was based on a countless number of visits to the airport over the years; if something was specific to my most recent visit, I noted it as such in the post
- Nowhere did I say that Cairo Airport has incredibly long queues, but rather I just said that there’s no order at the airport, and that the friendliness of the staff leaves a lot to be desired
Statement from Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation
I guess I should be flattered by just how much effort the Egyptian government has put into disproving my claims, as they’ve dug up CCTV footage tracking my every movement at the airport. To the airport’s credit, I’m impressed that all the cameras seem to work correctly!
When I heard that the Minister of Aviation planned to publish a video of me at the airport, I was excited to see it, as I wondered what their “evidence” would be. I have a clear conscience, because I’m an honest guy, and I’m not even looking to stir up any drama. So I was looking forward to seeing what they’d come up with.
What’s in the video? The airport posted a seven minute video of me in various parts of the airport. Creepiness aside, I’m not sure what exactly this is supposed to prove? Like, I’d understand this if the claim they were refuting was that I was never at the airport, but what does this prove, exactly? Unsurprisingly, this excludes the less pleasant parts of my experience.
But it gets much better than that. The Minister of Aviation has published a play-by-play summary of my time at the airport, and is basically writing my trip report for me. Let me just share that below in its entirety, and then I’ll respond.
“The Minister of Civil Aviation has directed a thorough investigation into the claims made, instructing a review of the airport’s surveillance footage. This allowed authorities to track the passenger’s journey step by step — from his arrival at Cairo International Airport on his first flight from Italy to his departure to his hotel, and then his second flight later that same day from Cairo to Addis Ababa.”
“The Ministry added this statement presents a clear and accurate account of the situation, taking into consideration the passenger’s reported difficulties during his travel experience.”
“The passenger arrived at Terminal 2 of Cairo International Airport on November 10, 2024, on ITA Airways flight No. AZ896 from Rome, landing at 16:50. The time from his arrival until his departure from the terminal was approximately 18 minutes — a remarkably quick processing time by international standards.”
“The Ministry noted that finalizing the procedures in this time reflects the efficiency and smoothness of the airport’s arrival procedures, as well as the flexibility of movement within the terminal. Afterward, the passenger proceeded to the Le Méridien Hotel, where he stayed for about five hours.”
“Later that same day, the passenger returned to Terminal 3 at Cairo International Airport for his onward journey. He was booked on Ethiopian Airlines flight No. ET453 to Addis Ababa, which departed at 2:50 am on November 11. His experience at the first checkpoint took approximately one minute. He then proceeded to the airline counter to complete his travel procedures, which took around 8 minutes. It’s important to note that these procedures are handled by the airline, not the airport, and are outside the airport’s direct control, the ministry continued.”
“The passenger then proceeded to the passport control counter, which took just one minute, further confirming the smooth and efficient flow of passengers within the airport. This contrasts with the passenger’s claims of chaos and disorder, which he suggested made him uncomfortable.”
“It is also worth noting that the passenger did not have any luggage, only a handbag and a small backpack. This contradicts his claims of being harassed by airport staff requesting a tip for helping carry his bags.”
“The passenger then visited two lounges in the departure hall. First, he went to Lounge 2, and later to Lounge E, where he had a drink, used his laptop, and stayed for about an hour. Afterward, he moved to Lounge G, where he had dinner and spent approximately 30 minutes. This indicates that the majority of his waiting time at the airport was spent enjoying the services offered by these lounges, which are known for their high quality.”
“This raises the question: Is it reasonable for a passenger to visit two lounges before a single flight? Additionally, before leaving Lounge G, the passenger used the lounge’s bathroom without any reported issues or harassment from staff. Furthermore, an important detail undermining the passenger’s claims is that the photo of the bathroom he posted does not correspond to the bathroom he used at Lounge G.”
“Regarding the passenger’s complaint about tipping, Cairo International Airport’s policies strongly contradict these claims. There are clear ‘NO TIPS’ signage throughout the airport, along with a dedicated complaint number to report any inappropriate behavior by staff. It’s important to note that no complaints were received from the passenger during his time at the airport.”
“As for the reported smell of cigarette smoke, the airport has designated smoking areas, and smoking is prohibited in all other areas. This practice is consistent with global airport standards.”
“Upon arriving at the departure hall (Gate G4), the passenger spent approximately 30 minutes standing at the gate entrance, seemingly with no specific reason for his prolonged stay. This behavior suggests his intention to observe and highlight any potential issues to report later.”
“Once inside the hall, instead of using available seating, he chose to stand for another 30 minutes by a window, taking pictures with his mobile phone of various scenes in the terminal. This suggests he was looking for negative details to publicize, potentially distorting the reality of the situation.”
“Regarding his earlier post about the security procedures at Cairo International Airport, the Ministry confirms that the security measures followed at the airport adhere to international standards for safety and security. There is also ongoing and effective coordination with all relevant agencies at the airport to ensure smooth operations and the highest level of service for passengers.”
“The passenger also criticized Cairo International Airport employees as being aggressive and unfriendly, which is unsupported by the camera footage. The passenger did not have any direct interactions with staff in the arrivals or departures halls. Furthermore, he was met by a hotel representative, as per his request, upon arrival, which contradicts his claims of mistreatment, chaos, or disorganization at the airport.”
“The Ministry affirmed that the accusations made against Cairo International Airport employees are unjustified and without basis. ‘These allegations, which lack any tangible evidence, serve only to damage the reputation of the airport staff and tarnish the reputation of Cairo International Airport itself. It is clear that these misleading claims are designed to harm both the airport’s image and the standing of its workers, without any factual support,’ the Ministry said.”
Furthermore, the passenger’s brief visit to Egypt, lasting less than five hours, was not for tourism or any official purpose, but rather appeared to be aimed at undermining Cairo Airport, the ministry continued.
“‘Cairo International Airport is Egypt’s and Africa’s primary gateway, with a nearly 4-star rating and a place among the top 10 airports in Africa, according to the Skytrax evaluation in February 2024. Skytrax, a UK-based company specializing in airport and airline star rankings, conducts independent surveys to gauge customer satisfaction worldwide,’ the Ministry said.”
“The Ministry of Aviation also wished to emphasize that it welcomes constructive criticism that helps improve the quality of services for travelers. However, it strongly rejects any unfounded, destructive accusations that seek to damage the efforts and reputation of the airport’s dedicated staff, especially when they are not based on verified facts.”
“Cairo International Airport staff undergo continuous professional training to ensure that all travelers receive the highest standards of service, comfort, and safety, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said, urging media outlets and social media users to verify the accuracy and objectivity of any information before publishing.
‘We strongly discourage the spread of false claims or misleading rumors that could damage the reputation of Egypt’s civil aviation sector,’ the Ministry added.
“The Ministry will take all necessary legal action against those who attempt to harm the credibility and reputation of the civil aviation sector through unfounded allegations.”
Responding to Egypt’s allegations against me
Rather than taking what I have to say as constructive feedback, or even just ignoring it, Egypt’s Minister of Aviation is instead bringing more attention to this, and is making up baseless accusations. There’s nothing like claiming that someone else is making up baseless accusations, only to respond by… making baseless accusations.
I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised on their stance — there’s no room for improvement, but rather if you have anything bad to say about the airport, you must be wrong, and should face legal action.
Egypt’s claims about me at the airport fall into one of three categories:
- They’re accurate, but don’t contradict anything I claimed
- They assume that my claims about the airport are based on a single visit, when I made it clear that my impression is based on many visits (and I’ve written about my experiences at the airport many times over the years)
- They’re just downright inaccurate, and baseless conspiracy theories
So let me respond to the key claims that Egypt makes. As you’d expect, since I was clearly tracked step-by-step, the timeline provided by the government of my movement is accurate. I’ll stick to the main highlights, but if there’s anything I miss, feel free to ask me in the comments section, because I’m an open book and have nothing to hide.
“The time from his arrival until his departure from the terminal was approximately 18 minutes — a remarkably quick processing time by international standards.”
“The Ministry noted that finalizing the procedures in this time reflects the efficiency and smoothness of the airport’s arrival procedures, as well as the flexibility of movement within the terminal. Afterward, the passenger proceeded to the Le Méridien Hotel, where he stayed for about five hours.”
Right, so I never claimed that the arrivals process took a long time. Also, it’s kind of hilarious that the government claims that my arrivals experience highlights “the efficiency and smoothness of the airport’s arrival procedure.”
Do they want to share video footage of how I actually got through immigration? The Le Meridien Cairo Airport sent a meet and greet service for me, and I entirely skipped the immigration line, thanks to the escort just walking in front of everyone, and shaking the immigration officer’s hand. And then of course we stopped at the ATM machine on the way out of the airport. I’m not sure that really highlights the airport’s efficiency, and how user friendly it is for everyone? Regardless, this doesn’t contradict any claim I made, and if anything, supports it.
“The passenger then proceeded to the passport control counter, which took just one minute, further confirming the smooth and efficient flow of passengers within the airport. This contrasts with the passenger’s claims of chaos and disorder, which he suggested made him uncomfortable.”
Again, my claim was that staff at the airport were rude, unhelpful, and distracted. I didn’t claim there was a long line at the passport control counter.
“It is also worth noting that the passenger did not have any luggage, only a handbag and a small backpack. This contradicts his claims of being harassed by airport staff requesting a tip for helping carry his bags.”
So if Egyptian authorities don’t believe that those people “helping” with bags at the initial security checks are asking for tips, well, then they are really choosing to look the other way and ignore reality.
“The passenger then visited two lounges in the departure hall. First, he went to Lounge 2, and later to Lounge E, where he had a drink, used his laptop, and stayed for about an hour. Afterward, he moved to Lounge G, where he had dinner and spent approximately 30 minutes. This indicates that the majority of his waiting time at the airport was spent enjoying the services offered by these lounges, which are known for their high quality.”
“This raises the question: Is it reasonable for a passenger to visit two lounges before a single flight?”
Goodness, the Egyptian government is just coming up with new blog post ideas for me. “Is it reasonable for a passenger to visit two lounges before a single flight?” What a scandal! For the record, I first visited a lounge near the security checkpoint, and then when I got bored there, I headed to a lounge closer to my departure gate.
“Additionally, before leaving Lounge G, the passenger used the lounge’s bathroom without any reported issues or harassment from staff. Furthermore, an important detail undermining the passenger’s claims is that the photo of the bathroom he posted does not correspond to the bathroom he used at Lounge G.”
Right, so I wrote about an awkward lounge bathroom encounter, and in it, I posted a picture of a urinal. That urinal was from a lounge in Cairo Airport — it was taken during a previous visit, as were all the pictures I posted of Cairo Airport in that post. I never claimed otherwise.
“Regarding the passenger’s complaint about tipping, Cairo International Airport’s policies strongly contradict these claims. There are clear “NO TIPS” signage throughout the airport, along with a dedicated complaint number to report any inappropriate behavior by staff. It’s important to note that no complaints were received from the passenger during his time at the airport.”
Yeah, I mean this is where you know authorities lose all credibility, and where they’re really grasping at straws. Their defense is that no one at the airport ever asks for tips? Even the people who were disagreeing with me and saying Cairo Airport isn’t so bad agreed on this point, saying that’s just how stuff works in Egypt.
And of course I didn’t file a formal complaint about staff asking for tips, because… that’s just how stuff works in Egypt!
“Upon arriving at the departure hall (Gate G4), the passenger spent approximately 30 minutes standing at the gate entrance, seemingly with no specific reason for his prolonged stay. This behavior suggests his intention to observe and highlight any potential issues to report later.”
Hah. For those not familiar with Cairo Airport Terminal 3, security is at each individual gate, and it’s not always entirely clear when a gate area opens. So yes, I was near the entrance to the gate area, as were dozens of other people who were also on my flight.
“Once inside the hall, instead of using available seating, he chose to stand for another 30 minutes by a window, taking pictures with his mobile phone of various scenes in the terminal. This suggests he was looking for negative details to publicize, potentially distorting the reality of the situation.”
I just pulled up my camera roll from the gate area, and I had exactly two pictures saved, and you can find them below.
I review airlines, and I always try to have a picture of the gate area in my reviews, and this was no exception. Is there anything scandalous here? Nope. Did I stand in the gate area rather than taking a seat? Absolutely. As y’all know, I try to be the first to board flights, so that I can get good pictures of the cabin without people in them. Do you think I would’ve gotten proper cabin pictures of the Ethiopian Airlines Airbus A350 if I took a seat in the back of the gate area? Nope, and that had nothing to do with Cairo Airport.
“The passenger also criticized Cairo International Airport employees as being aggressive and unfriendly, which is unsupported by the camera footage. The passenger did not have any direct interactions with staff in the arrivals or departures halls.”
The claim is that I didn’t interact with any staff? Right, I scanned my own bags at security, gave myself a pat down, checked my own tickets at the entrance to the airport, and scanned my own boarding pass upon entering the gate area. This doesn’t even make sense! Even beyond that, let me emphasize that my impression of staff at Cairo Airport is based on countless visits over the years, and not based on a single visit.
Furthermore, the passenger’s brief visit to Egypt, lasting less than five hours, was not for tourism or any official purpose, but rather appeared to be aimed at undermining Cairo Airport, the ministry continued.
That’s right, I traveled to Cairo Airport exclusively to be able to undermine the airport… not because the airport is known for its good premium fares, as I’ve written about several times. Honestly what a ridiculous and baseless claim. Even though I literally explain why I travel through the airport, authorities instead come to the bizarre conclusion that I traveled just to undermine the airport?!
“‘Cairo International Airport is Egypt’s and Africa’s primary gateway, with a nearly 4-star rating and a place among the top 10 airports in Africa, according to the Skytrax evaluation in February 2024. Skytrax, a UK-based company specializing in airport and airline star rankings, conducts independent surveys to gauge customer satisfaction worldwide,’ the Ministry said.”
To be clear, by “nearly 4-star rating” they actually mean 3-star rating. I mean, that’s like Air Koryo claiming a “nearly 2-star rating.” Oh, and we care about the independent takes on the Cairo Airport experience at Skytrax, right? Well, the airport has a 3/10 rating there, with the most recent review being titled “it’s awful every time,” and reading as follows (and no, this wasn’t me!):
Cairo airport has to be one of the most backwards and ridiculous airports in the world. I’ve travelled here countless times and it’s awful every time, whether you’re arriving or departing. The staff are horrid, the services are nonexistent, and the airport facilities are archaic. If you’re arriving, expect a ridiculous queue for visa, another ridiculous queue for passport control then, for no reason, a queue and security scanner on your way out, where twice now my bag has been damaged by staff. Let’s not mention the taxi trolls on your exit out of the building. If departing, give yourself an extra hour as there is a security measure and scan upon entry into the terminal building, before checking in. Where they’ve destroyed my laptop and broken my bag historically also. Have your passport and your ticket in your hand here, even though there’s no sign or information you need to have it outside your bag. Then expect a queue again and check in and for you to be stressed about missing your flight. Then you’ll get questioned by passport control on your way out. After wasting your time at the most awful outlets, you’ll go to your gate and have another security round where they’ll shout at you, and take all the liquids you just brought in the airport. They’ll then pen you in the gate area with no water, nothing, except one toilet.
I think the government needs to go after everyone not leaving a perfect review of the airport, because obviously they’re just making things up.
Bottom line
The Egyptian government is giving a masterclass in how not to respond to online criticism, especially at the same time that the country is trying to greatly grow its tourism industry. I shared my subjective take on why I believe Cairo Airport is the worst major airport in the world, based on my own experiences. I didn’t claim it was a fact, and I gave others the opportunity to share their opinions. Some people agreed with me, and others disagreed with me. Unlike Egyptian government officials, I respect everyone’s take.
The airport responded by posting CCTV footage of me (which proves nothing), claiming that no one at the airport would ever ask for tips, arguing that the purpose of my trip to Cairo was to tarnish the reputation of the airport, and even threatening me with legal action for spreading misinformation.
Like I said, I’ve been doing this a long time. While I know that Egypt isn’t exactly the most progressive country in the world, I wasn’t expecting this level of response to a simple blog post with a take on an airport. It makes me grateful to live in the United States, where I can at least criticize my home airport without fear of punishment.
If any other media wants to cover this situation but wants more details, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]. The same applies to any Egyptian officials — I’m happy to have a constructive conversation, and would love for the airport to improve.
What do you make of this saga?
‘Nearly 4 stars’ what are they on? This is embarrassing on every single level!
Damn this is pure entertainment! Thank you Ministry of Aviation.
Ben, you’re the best!
WOW. I've used Cairo for affordable business fares for a few years now. This is shocking and unsurprising at the same time- what a paradox. Would you mind if I translate some of this to French and use it in my classroom? I'm trying to teach my advanced high school students how to travel responsibly.
I feel this headline is going to bite Lucky in the a**. Search engines might not show the "not actually".
That would just make it more tempting to click at :)
https://onemileatatime.com/news/bali-punishes-travel-blogger/
Reminds me of this. Comments are funny LMAO.
It is all about "saving face". The Arab culture is different from western culture. You can respond with "facts" all that you like. It will not change anything, this is about saving face. Please Google "Arab culture saving face". You will find a long list of articles related to this.
It should be also noted that the communication from the Egyptian authorities was really intended for the domestic audience, I don't think they expected people from abroad to even read about it. Serves them right, I was torn whether to visit or not, now I'm absolutely 100% sure that staying as far away as possible is the correct choice.
If only they took the time, money and energy to meticulously respond to your review and apply that to tangible improvements to their operations. I can’t imagine how many resources were wasted during this process.
And of course you’re going to go to two lounges, if you had the time, you’re a travel reviewer, and it makes sense to see as many as you can if you’re able to.
Calling a 3 star rating a "nearly 4 star rating" is enough by itself to disregard the whole thing.
The "nearly 4 star rating" had me rolling. Hilarious.
I would be extremely careful about calling out governments, especially one that has given our future president $10M for unknown reasons. You never know what kind of favors are going to be called in over the next 4 years.
I was planning on visiting Egypt in December, with a tour company, but if the airport is this bad I may have to reconsider! A pity because i love Ancient Egyptian History. :(
The only point I could see my self agreeing with you is the boarding process, I visited Cairo airport many time and it always has been very pleasant experience, the Egyptian people are well known for their hospitality and friendliness at the airport or even in the city, the airport in general very nice and clean, lounges very comfortable, bathrooms are clean and the staff are a lot a lot nicer than security staff at...
The only point I could see my self agreeing with you is the boarding process, I visited Cairo airport many time and it always has been very pleasant experience, the Egyptian people are well known for their hospitality and friendliness at the airport or even in the city, the airport in general very nice and clean, lounges very comfortable, bathrooms are clean and the staff are a lot a lot nicer than security staff at European airports, your point about smoking smell, Cairo airport smells very nice in all areas and has fewer smoking area compared to European airports and I wish they add more smoking lounges not less
(smokers has right too and as far as I know, smoking is not illegal, and if airport discriminates against smoker I don’t visit and try to avoid)
As I mentioned before, the only point I agree with you on is the boarding process and it has nothing to do with the airport policy, it’s just the airline representative not doing there job properly, and that is the only area it need some attention beside adding more smoking lounges!!!
Without getting into your experience and comments about the Cairo Airport, I share a similar opinion from a trip to Egypt a few years ago.
I may not be as travelled as you are but I have been to over 50 countries around the world and visited the best airports and lounges in the world during my trips.
I also have the opinion that the Cairo Airport is the worst (among major airports) I have ever been in my entire life.
I'm finding this entire thing very fascinating. No doubt, Egypt is handling the entire thing in a bizarre fashion. They probably never heard of The Streisand Effect. Regardless, there are some interesting things to break down on both sides.
Have reviews started to cross the line across the world? Review sites, bloggers, influencers, Instagramers, TikTok - we have essentially gone review mad. Bad reviews, or drama, brings even more views, clicks and dollars. Even at...
I'm finding this entire thing very fascinating. No doubt, Egypt is handling the entire thing in a bizarre fashion. They probably never heard of The Streisand Effect. Regardless, there are some interesting things to break down on both sides.
Have reviews started to cross the line across the world? Review sites, bloggers, influencers, Instagramers, TikTok - we have essentially gone review mad. Bad reviews, or drama, brings even more views, clicks and dollars. Even at TripAdvisor and Yelp, bad reviews are what people are looking for. They scan for the worst outcome. It's like looking at car accidents.
The reality of this review is that I think it does not take into account culture, location, or realities that are ingrained in Egypt. I, for one, know what to expect there. As do most. Is it the worst airport? Doubtful. I personally think MIA is a hole....but again, it's MIA...Miami is gonna Miami. CAI is also one of the reasons flights are so cheap from and through. It does that part well - so perhaps in context it is the best airport in the world? MIA doesn't even offer value...why I would rate it the worst.
That's where reviews and reviewers seem to miss the mark. They fail to point out the value equation or realities of place. In the process they insult its people. Of course, Egyptians just see an entitled rich white American coming there and telling them how bad they are. That's not going to go over well anywhere.
This probably serves as an inflection point for reviewers out there. Where the line may be drawn. Perhaps the idea being that if the review serves no real purpose (I doubt the original post was not going to sway anyone if they wanted to use CAI or not) do you want to risk insulting these people in the process?
The reality is, as they see it, a rich white American man insults a proud people. No different than a rich British blogger coming to MIA and writing about the disgusting nature of American airports and the horrid people working in TSA, CBP, airline counters etc. Not wrong, but do you really want to go there?
Egyptians want money they don’t care about anything else! Cairo airport is all about blackmail and begging for money.
You gotta love the Meyer Lansky school of public relations response here: “Say that we’re friendly and polite or we’ll beat you up.”
As someone into ancient history, I've always been interested in very interested in Egyptian history and have visited Egypt a couple times to take in the sites. But, the country does my head in and my visits are likely finished. Rubbish airports are just the beginning. Even non-smoking rooms at Hilton and Bonvoy hotels stink of smoke and everyone is out to scam you (including convenience stores) or badger you for a tip. Earlier in...
As someone into ancient history, I've always been interested in very interested in Egyptian history and have visited Egypt a couple times to take in the sites. But, the country does my head in and my visits are likely finished. Rubbish airports are just the beginning. Even non-smoking rooms at Hilton and Bonvoy hotels stink of smoke and everyone is out to scam you (including convenience stores) or badger you for a tip. Earlier in the year I booked a private car to drive me from Soma Bay to Luxor, and we were stopped by cops after visiting Dendera Temple and not released until they were bribed. (My driver paid it, likely realizing I would have gone mental on the tour company I booked it through if I was made to pay it.)
If I were you I'd also be worried about entering other authoritarian countries, especially in the Middle East... are you going to keep going to these countries? It only takes one.... and you are clearly on their radar now.
This is why you are the best in the biz Lucky! Don't go back to Egypt and lol maybe avoid their airspace for a while too.
Here is Gary’s take:
https://viewfromthewing.com/creepy-surveillance-bathroom-claims-and-legal-threats-egyptian-ministers-absurd-response-to-bloggers-cairo-airport-critique/
Though, he did spell your surname incorrectly.
Gary isn't very bright.
I admire your courage for being an openly gay man who shit on Egyptian authority. You're really one of the best travel bloggers out there.
Lucky, I agree with you 100%. But that is in our perspective as westerners. Perhaps in their perspective, their airport functions just fine. The tipping thing is ridiculous, but maybe in their minds, its not a "tip," rather wages to provide a service. Their super aggressive attitude when asking for tips maybe a cultural norm that we just aren't used to.
Somebody didn't read.
That's actually very entertaining. We should get more videos of your trip review works.
I’d love your video surveillance footage in Aegon Mykonos. Or in TAAG first class. :-)
If you can’t get it for free by pissing people in charge for being honest, you should hire someone to do it.
Ben, you’ve outdone yourself (with an assist from Egypt).
This is the most compelling OMAAT content ever.
The United States and Egypt have a legal assistance treaty that covers extradition and criminal assistance. The treaty was signed in Cairo on May 3, 1998.
All this fuss over an irrelevant "self-annointed travel guru"!
Or maybe it's that you're an actual travel guru with worldwide reach.
Go figure.
This does it for me: I haven't heard anything bad about visiting Egypt before, but now I am never setting foot in Egypt.
From Foreign Policy's website last week:
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was among the first world leaders to congratulate Trump on his victory even before The Associated Press called the election on the morning of Nov. 6. “We look forward to achieving peace together, preserving regional peace and stability,” he posted on social media. Sisi later called Trump that evening to extend further congratulations.
Both leaders respect strongman politics. During his first administration, in 2019,...
From Foreign Policy's website last week:
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was among the first world leaders to congratulate Trump on his victory even before The Associated Press called the election on the morning of Nov. 6. “We look forward to achieving peace together, preserving regional peace and stability,” he posted on social media. Sisi later called Trump that evening to extend further congratulations.
Both leaders respect strongman politics. During his first administration, in 2019, Trump sparked controversy by yelling out, “Where’s my favorite dictator?” as he waited for Sisi to arrive at a meeting during a G-7 summit held in France.
At that time, Trump applauded Sisi for being “a very tough man.” He added, “We understood each other very well.”
Sharm airport (SSH) has announcements.about no smoking in terminal. At the same time, during passport control, person in uniform saying Police, arrived in the booth, took cigarette from passport controlling employee and started smoking it there. That happened in September 2024. But of course they would never show CCTV of this, but everyone knows how it works.
Definitely don't go back to Egypt.
I do think there is an argument that Ben's expectations for Cairo's airport are unrealistic. Everyone knows it isn't a 5-star, world-class airport. And everyone knows that staff ask for bribes (tips). But is the airport objectively any worse than other comparables? I still believe, as I've said, that someone domestically must have found the article and started using for domestic political purposes because I highly doubt the Egyptian government is reading frequent flyer blogs.
I do think there is an argument that Ben's expectations for Cairo's airport are unrealistic. Everyone knows it isn't a 5-star, world-class airport. And everyone knows that staff ask for bribes (tips). But is the airport objectively any worse than other comparables? I still believe, as I've said, that someone domestically must have found the article and started using for domestic political purposes because I highly doubt the Egyptian government is reading frequent flyer blogs.
umm okay? its still the worst major airport lol
a big city hub for an airline where its ghetto and people scam you ? lol definitely cairo unless ur blind
I feel they are more observations rather than expectations, we have all travelled through airports that raise the odds ebrow or 2 but we don’t articulate them for all and sundry to digest.
YIKES! I can't believe they posted a video of you. Honestly that government is an absolute danger, and shame on every western government that legitimises it.
As long as Egypt plays nice with Israel, most western governments will legitimize it.
Been to CAI, as a simple passenger. Agreed that CAI undoubtedly is a 2d-rate airport in a 3d-world airport. I'm not so lucky as effectively to be banned yet. I have the same queasy feeling about flying through Hong Kong Airport HKG, as I distrust the controlling security force over my person and my bags.
You've to visit hurghada international airport, please do it. It's unbelievable how workers are unprofessional and most of them are rude. I hope those airports will be clear of those people acting like parasites. I love Egypt as my roots are Egyptian. But lying is the last option to solve a problem. Hope everything will change because Egypt is a beautiful country and it deserves much better.
Speaking of Hurghada’s airport
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/teenager-told-strip-airport-security-29959146.amp
Lol hurghada airport? no one knows where that is. it's not a major airport. ive flown through cairo airport twice and hated it each time. no one would choose to fly through it if they didnt have to lol
instead of claiming people are lying, how about you get your country in line?
OMG You are still wearing a mask?! I was on your side but now you lost credibility haha
Get a life! Is this what you are concerned about? I wear mask too when I travel to certain places, so does millions of people around the world everyday too for one reason or another
I wear a facemask too, when at crowded locations.
Honestly get a life. People like you should wear masks because you’re probably dirty af
You are a liar supported by dirty Ethiopia and you will be punished by law and banned from entering Egypt forever
@ Ahmed -- I love insightful comments like this! So, I'm curious, when you say I'm "supported by dirty Ethiopia," that means... they're bankrolling me to criticize Cairo Airport?
Ha! But that does remind me... Addis Ababa is another rubbish airport. I still think Cairo is worse though.
Cairo Airport and the government officials are about to understand what the Streisand Effect is.
Omg, this is amazing Lucky! Do you think you'll go back to Cairo's airport after this? I don't think I would.
When I was there, I booked a night at Le Méridien Cairo Airport since I landed late. I couldn't find the walkway and went to the help desk and they said it was a $10 drive to get there and there was no walkway. It was late, so I agreed. On the drive, I could see the walkway and knew I got scammed.
@ Ryan -- Sorry to hear about your experience (obviously you must be lying, because everything in Cairo is perfect!). ;-) I'm definitely going to be steering clear of Egypt until there's a government change, and/or any positive progress is made here. I'm not a total idiot.
I believe you have two passports - would that make any difference or do you think they're linked (and/or other demographics/biometrics would still tip them off)?
Having traveled through CAI dozens of times over the past 2 years, I'd like to take the opportunity to fully endorse Ben's conclusions that CAI is, beyond doubt, the worst major international airport in the world.
Terminal 3 of CAI is, without a doubt, the worst airport terminal of any airport in the entire world. And I don't think that's hyperbolic to say so. Suggesting otherwise would be a disservice to all the other terrible...
Having traveled through CAI dozens of times over the past 2 years, I'd like to take the opportunity to fully endorse Ben's conclusions that CAI is, beyond doubt, the worst major international airport in the world.
Terminal 3 of CAI is, without a doubt, the worst airport terminal of any airport in the entire world. And I don't think that's hyperbolic to say so. Suggesting otherwise would be a disservice to all the other terrible airport terminals worldwide because none compare to Terminal 3 at CAI. What other international airport has you go through a side exit door from a major arrivals terminal to transfer to the domestic terminal? And have you go through a passport control that's in a back alley?
I have zero desire to ever return to Egypt ever again. There isn't a shred of me that will regret never going back.
Vladimir Shklyaro, 39, famous Russian ballet dancer has died. He fell out of a window yesterday. A likely story. No joke.
@ben this idiot seems to be making personal threats so would suggest you escalate to the police.
@derek I guess Egypt doesn’t offer customers the option to provide feedback. If it’s negative they get threatened. I for one, have no desire to visit that cesspit despite its former fascinating history.
You know what they say about picking fights with people who buy ink by the barrel.
Lucky causing an international incident, being publicly denounced like the Larry David fatwa, and probably never being able to return to Egypt is just proof that he is more back than ever. This is the cost of high quality content. We all got a little worried during the post-Covid review lull, but our man is back to performing at the absolute highest levels of travel reviewing. TPG could never!
Came to say the same thing. Fatwa fatwa!!!
Yeah, let's shower @Ben with some love! You're THE best!
I almost fell off my chair when I read the “nearly 4-star rating” part, LMAO.
Other than that, they're just making a fool of themselves. The security cam footage can easily be summarized as "1) dude texts his family back at home to know how their day is going; 2) dude goes about the airport minding his own business; 3) dude snaps 2 pics with his cell phone; 4) this proves his evil intentions...
I almost fell off my chair when I read the “nearly 4-star rating” part, LMAO.
Other than that, they're just making a fool of themselves. The security cam footage can easily be summarized as "1) dude texts his family back at home to know how their day is going; 2) dude goes about the airport minding his own business; 3) dude snaps 2 pics with his cell phone; 4) this proves his evil intentions to destroy this country."
I'm suprised they didn't report about the comments people made on the original post, especially when MIA was brought into question. They could have said "our amazing airport is 'almost' at the same level of a major US airport."
What a comedy!
What a sh**hole of the country. I have visited 70 countries around the world, and here is another confirmation why Egypt is not among them, despite I have only 3 hours on the plane to reach it.
Ben for your own safety, AVOID Egypt for any future travel unless there is a government change. Please read the case of Guilio Regeni
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Giulio_Regeni
You are very much in risk of being arrested and tortured
It's called "saving face" and it's a HUGE part of the culture in the Arabic world. They can never admit fault...or else they would lose face.
You must be getting a lot of Egyptian traffic. I wonder if you could monetize with Egyptian credit card or other links. That would be a legendary troll.
Now THIS is a fantastic idea. I'm jealous I didn't think of this. Bravo!
Just thinking out loud... You're a holder of a German passport, right? As such, you would technically be a personal data subject under EU law.
GDPR also applies to organizations in third countries that process personally identifiable information of EU data subjects, and this video footage very much qualifies. Now, unlike most companies, it's probably not straightforward to indict an Egyptian state-owned company that runs the airport for GDPR infringement, but German data protection authorities...
Just thinking out loud... You're a holder of a German passport, right? As such, you would technically be a personal data subject under EU law.
GDPR also applies to organizations in third countries that process personally identifiable information of EU data subjects, and this video footage very much qualifies. Now, unlike most companies, it's probably not straightforward to indict an Egyptian state-owned company that runs the airport for GDPR infringement, but German data protection authorities have been known to be pretty shrewd. They probably wouldn't go into an all-out diplomatic conflict over this, but I would maybe still ask about their opinion on this :)
Worth a shot just to troll them, but Art. 3 Cl. 2 provides that the territorial scope governs individuals who are "in the Union" - i.e., physically present there - or else processing activities that occur in the Union. Mere citizenship without physical presence likely isn't enough for extraterritorial application.
This is unacceptable, the difference between a constructive criticism and a false accusation is way more than that between a praise and a criticism. I criticise something because I want that "something" to get better, and I believe this goes the same for many others.
I think we should also recognise how is Ben responding to this accusation in a proper manner, without panicking.
I wonder with this situation become escalated dramatically, could be some non-Egypt media start to pick this story?
It’s being covered in Jordon and Russia as far as I can see ;
https://www.almasryalyoum.com/news/details/3308761
@Ben: What brand of backpack are you carrying?
@ Santastico -- Briggs & Riley:
https://onemileatatime.com/briggs-riley/
I actually was planning on getting new luggage soon, but that's a topic for a different post.
I'd been kicking around the idea of visiting Cairo in the next year or so - lol not anymore. What a pathetic, whiny regime.
The good thing about the video is that it shows the amount of work Ben does to provide such detailed and helpful trip reports. Sorry the cheap fares out of Cairo are out for you now, understandably. Let us know where you find another business class fare sweet spot. Great work, Ben. Keep it up.
@ 777timetofly -- Thank you, means a lot! :-)
The amount of video surveillance is incredible. I mean, maybe not incredible in the sense that it is surprising as Egypt is a military dictatorship. But incredible in that (1) it works and (2) they had the capability to find him. Can you imagine how much time some state security bureaucrat had to spend pulling the video?
@ FNT Delta Diamond -- Yeah, I was shocked as well, and I really wonder how much time has been spent piecing this all together. I'm sort of impressed. If only they put this much effort into running a quality airport!
I'm sure with all this video, they have plenty of evidence of airport employees taking tips (bribes). I still remember being there in 2014 and seeing security staff take bribes to allow a passenger to avoid going through security.
@FNT Delta Diamond
Not that I support the current Egyptian regime, but I see nothing wrong with having so much security cams?
A lot of people praise and wonder how is unstaffed stores in Japan and Korea works and nobody steals anything from it.
But the same people complain about having too much security cams, when what they praise works largely due to the security cams, in addition to their cultural differences.
Double...
@FNT Delta Diamond
Not that I support the current Egyptian regime, but I see nothing wrong with having so much security cams?
A lot of people praise and wonder how is unstaffed stores in Japan and Korea works and nobody steals anything from it.
But the same people complain about having too much security cams, when what they praise works largely due to the security cams, in addition to their cultural differences.
Double standards.
Unless it's China security cams only do good for the security.
What will really blow your mind is how much video surveillance is present at airports in countries that aren't military dictatorships...
There goes your future chance of visiting Egypt! I'd be cautious to step into that country if I were you!
There are clear ‘NO TIPS’ signage throughout the airport,
Gee, I wish they put that sign everywhere in America.
You put signage because there IS an issue there.
You see 'no smoking' sign in hotel rooms because guests smokes.
Have you ever seen 'don't feed the birds' in a hotel room before?
Or how about 'no trespassing' on an airplane?
Even better a sign 'private property, please put your seat in an...
There are clear ‘NO TIPS’ signage throughout the airport,
Gee, I wish they put that sign everywhere in America.
You put signage because there IS an issue there.
You see 'no smoking' sign in hotel rooms because guests smokes.
Have you ever seen 'don't feed the birds' in a hotel room before?
Or how about 'no trespassing' on an airplane?
Even better a sign 'private property, please put your seat in an upright position lower your armrests and fasten your seatbelt, violaters will be shot' on a ranch in some stand your ground state.
Then the hilarious Skytrax, very very credible.
I guess someone will apologize for and defend an almost #12 ranked airline in the world. Which it self is an almost 5 star airline.
Bet he'd mock you for writing "guests smokes" instead of "guests smoke".
I wonder since when OMAAT audience included an age cohort full of Skibidi Toilet and Kai Cenat fans?
Well sometimes you have to trick chatGPT and bait sus Delulu.
Sometimes typing on a tiny is hard or maybe trolling the language police is actually fun.
I bet he think you're broken Ingliz is Ohio.
Life is hard to W.
I'd highly recommend you never visit that airport (or Egypt) again. You are on their radar, and they will harass you (or worse) the next time you're in their reach.
Ben shoʻuld apologize and do it now. There is some risk to his personal safety.
Egypt is right, Ben is wrong.
The only credit to Ben is that he might not have felt relaxed in Cairo, but objective measures, such as time waiting are in Egypt's favor.
For Miles and Ford's sake, apologize or, at least, clarify and don't come down as hard on Cairo.
CAI is a decent airport!
@ derek -- A decent airport? On the other post, you commented "Cairo airport is among the best in the world." Did it just get worse? :p
Ben, thank you for reminding me. Cairo is among the best. Seriously, Ben, think of your family. Back down. Do it now. No joke.
Whats wronh with you Derek? Go back to Egypt and enjou your life, if you have one
This sounds like a veiled threat to me. Not cool.
Why does this read like a threat? On second thought, it reads exactly like a threat, and one that's directed at the man's family and young child. Unbelievable.
Ben isn't an Egyptian "subject." He and his family remain in a country that is safe and free, إنْ شَاءَ ٱللَّٰهُ
Derek - or is that the Egyptian government using a pseudonym?
CAI is a s— hole. Amongst the best ? lol according to who ?
Your message also sounds like a threat.
The message is not a threat but am grave concern for Ben. He is one of the best boarding area bloggers. The website would not be the same if Ben were to be a Skripal or an Otto Warmbier. Ben doesn't have the resources of the US Army behind him so he must be cautious. That's a sad fact.
"It makes me grateful to live in the United States, where [strong]I can at least criticize my home airport without fear of punishment[/strong]."
For now.
TravelinPenis being TravelinPenis.
You think Democrats would make America any freer?
They're the one who limited the freedom of speech the most, excusing it on "equality".
Lol freedom of speech is limited to the government if you knew anything about the constitution
They limited hate speech. Which isn't freedom of speech. Freedom of speech is speech where you can criticize the government without fear of reprisal from the government.
This might just be the best drama series we've seen on OMAAT since the Sparkling Wine-gate
Gotta ask. Of all the ways you thought you'd go (somewhat) viral, would you have ever thought it would result from that Cairo airport article?
@ Khatl -- Hah, absolutely not! Though given that my travels have been pretty smooth post-Aegon Mykonos, I figured it was about time for another "situation" that's blown out of proportion.
Ahh, the fond memories of Aegon Mykonos! Lol
Ben fully agree with everything you say. But why pick a random review from Skytrax website which just happens to be most recent and 3/10 - there are 8/10 reviews as well? Just about as scientific and one-sided as you claim their reply to be, you can do better!
@ Will -- I was just sharing the most recent review published on the website about the airport. To be clear, the 3/10 rating is the overall rating across all reviews, and not across a single review. Admittedly that was a 1/10 rating, but that would be closer to the average than an 8/10 rating.
Egypt is a s#&%hole country that I had considered visiting for the incredible history. Hard pass now.
Same. I almost bought QR business class tickets to visit the pyramids in the spring. No way. Hard pass. I wonder how much tourist revenue Egypt will lose on this ridiculous vendetta against Ben.
An unbelievable escalation. CAI drops down even further on my visit list (already low).
Why were you wearing a mask in parts of the airport?
@ FNT Delta Diamond -- I often wear masks when at airports and in crowded areas. In the case of Cairo Airport, it's also really cold in the terminals in some areas, so a mask helps with staying warm, heh.
Oh my!!! Wear a mask to help stay warm? I haven't seen anyone "crowding" around you in any of the videos above. Other than a few passengers in the baggage area you were the only person seen on the videos.
@ Santastico -- Well of course, of my hours at the airport, the authorities only shared video footage there weren't people near me. That footage obviously doesn't reflect the entirety of my experience.
@Lucky
Santastico is one of those people who equates people wearing masks as too scared to leave their parent's basement or some other nonsense.
Absolutely right, wear mask as you see fit.
Apology for masks is not necessary. Masks are good. The pandemic is not over. I wear a mask in airports.
Even without a pandemic, major airports are one of a few places (along with hospitals) where it makes sense to wear a mask. The last time I came down with a cold or some other bug after a flight was 2019...
I thought the same but if you pay attention to the videos he wasn't wearing a mask. It looks like a reflection on his face but I can't see a mask.
The short video did not show him wearing a mask but yes, the long version does.
3/10 on Skytrax reviews. That's a lot of bad reviews. I guess it will keep their legal department busy with all the " legal action" they'll be taking against everyone who didn't find Cairo better than Changi !
"Almost 4 star" lol. It's funny up to the point where it's threatening and creepy.
@Ben full version of the CCTV
https://youtu.be/2pV6-LeFzRA?si=eCglteaIjlUej-PE
@ Creditcrunch - Oh, how fun! Didn't realize it was even longer, hah. Let me update the post and add that.
Hey Ben, I'm Canadian who was born in Egypt. Everything you said is true and even worse. I hate the batting down they do at the gate. If the gate is changed, you get another free massage by someone with a disgusting smell. Then, if you land in Europe, you have to go to kind of enhanced security, because they don't see Cairo Airport as secure enough. It's a mess. Now, if they said they...
Hey Ben, I'm Canadian who was born in Egypt. Everything you said is true and even worse. I hate the batting down they do at the gate. If the gate is changed, you get another free massage by someone with a disgusting smell. Then, if you land in Europe, you have to go to kind of enhanced security, because they don't see Cairo Airport as secure enough. It's a mess. Now, if they said they will take legal action, this means next time in Egypt, you will be probably detained. I'm not trying to scare you, but just to let you know. Dumb Trump once named the stupid Egyptianpresident
"My favorite dictator” Feel free to PM me if you need a translation or something.
PS. Don't give up!
Some of those comments are great. Are those bots or just "patriots"
(Long live Egypt Long live Egypt Long live Egypt And down with the traitors and sheep)
I would probably not set foot in that country ever again for the fear of being arrested. They don't joke with these things.
So basically the Egyptian government won’t accept CAI is a s- hole.
Are they going to prosecute everyone who claims otherwise and you must ensure you say it’s the Changi Airport of Africa.
It’s also extremely concerning they went so far as to find CCTV and publish it.
I guess your last visit to Egypt and it would certainly put off a alot of people who thought they may want to go there.
This is beyond amazing. It's not like this blog is The New York Times. Does the Egyptian government just casually read frequent flyer blogs? I wonder if someone internally in Egypt found the article and was using it to criticize the government. That would explain the response.