EGYPTAIR has refuted claims of increased ticket prices for flights from Gulf countries to Cairo, attributing the perception of higher costs to limited seat availability and rising insurance premiums. The airline stated that reports circulating on social media regarding price hikes are inaccurate and do not align with its current policies, particularly given the ongoing regional instability.
The denial comes as EGYPTAIR continues to operate a special flight plan designed to repatriate Egyptian citizens stranded in Gulf states following disruptions to regular air travel. These disruptions began in late February 2026, triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East and airspace closures in neighboring countries, initially impacting flights to 13 destinations including Dubai, Doha, and Beirut. While regular flights to several destinations remain suspended, EGYPTAIR has begun a phased resumption of services to Dubai and Dammam, starting March 6th.
According to a statement released by the airline, the exceptional flights prioritized passengers with existing confirmed bookings, offering them travel at the originally agreed-upon fare. EGYPTAIR has also waived change penalties for affected travelers. However, the airline clarified that seats available for new bookings on these flights are capped at 5% of total capacity and are priced in line with prevailing market rates charged by other airlines operating similar routes.
EGYPTAIR attributed the current pricing structure, even for the limited seats available for new sales, to a significant and unexpected increase in insurance costs. The airline cited heightened operational risks associated with flying through areas designated as high-risk zones due to geopolitical tensions. The carrier is absorbing the costs associated with operating outbound flight segments without passengers, a consequence of the disrupted travel schedules.
The airline’s response follows a period of widespread travel disruption across the region. On February 28th, EGYPTAIR suspended flights to thirteen Middle Eastern destinations, citing rapidly escalating regional tensions and airspace closures. This decision followed coordinated strikes in Iran, which prompted retaliatory attacks and subsequent airspace restrictions. As of March 5th, EgyptAir had begun to cautiously restore some flights to Dubai and Dammam, advising passengers to verify their flight status before traveling to the airport.
EGYPTAIR affirmed its commitment to supporting Egyptian citizens both domestically and abroad during this period of crisis, emphasizing its role as the national carrier and its dedication to maintaining safety and operational efficiency. As of March 7th, the airline has not announced a timeline for the full restoration of flights to all previously suspended destinations.
