🇪🇬EgyptNorth Africa
Cairo to host IATA Ground Handling Conference in 2026, focusing on AI-driven aviation operations
via Egypt Today2 min read
The International Air Transport Association IATA will hold its 38th Ground Handling Conference IGHC in Cairo, Egypt, from May 19–21, 2026. Hosted by EgyptAir, the conference will gather global aviation stakeholders to discuss the future of airport ground operations under the theme "Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI." The event will highlight the increasing importance of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital tools in enhancing safety, efficiency, and operational resilience. IATA Director of Ground Operations Monika Mejstrikova noted that the rise in air traffic and operational complexity necessitates smarter solutions combining technology with human expertise. EgyptAir Chairman Capt. Ahmed Adel stated that hosting the conference underscores Egypt’s strategic role as a regional aviation hub. The conference will feature senior aviation leaders, including Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, and will cover topics such as workforce transformation, capacity constraints, digitalization, operational resilience, fuel cost volatility, airline–ground handler partnerships, human factors, baggage data sharing, safety risks, and preparations for the EU Ground Handling Regulation expected in 2028. Updates to the Standard Ground Handling Agreement SGHA will also be addressed to improve global consistency and efficiency in ground operations.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Egypt Today.
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stated on Tuesday that Gulf security is an integral part of Egyptian national security, expressing Cairo's full solidarity with Manama amidst regional tensions. These remarks were made during his visit to Bahrain, where he met with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa after a visit to Qatar. The Spokesperson for the Egyptian Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, reported that Sisi underscored Egypt’s unwavering support for Bahrain’s stability and condemned any unjustified attacks against the kingdom as a violation of international law and a dangerous regional escalation. He reiterated Egypt's rejection of attempts to compromise the security of Bahrain, Gulf Cooperation Council nations, or the broader Arab region, affirming Cairo's stance with its partners to protect their sovereignty. Sisi also praised King Hamad's leadership in maintaining regional stability and detailed Egypt's diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions peacefully. King Hamad welcomed El-Sisi and appreciated Egypt's continuous support for Gulf security. Both leaders emphasized the need for close coordination and joint action to address shared challenges and restore stability.
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited Lusail Palace in Doha to extend his condolences to the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, following the passing of the Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. President El-Sisi expressed Egypt's solidarity with Qatar during this period of mourning and acknowledged the late Father Amir's contributions to Qatar's development. The Spokesman for the Egyptian Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, confirmed President El-Sisi's message of support. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani thanked President El-Sisi for his visit and emphasized the strong historical ties between their nations, expressing a desire to enhance bilateral cooperation.
Egypt's Minister of Agriculture Alaa Farouk met with AbdulHakim Elwaer, the FAO's Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, to discuss strengthening cooperation, particularly FAO's support for the government's "Productive Village Revival" initiative. This initiative aims to transform Egyptian villages from consumer communities into productive economic hubs, promoting sustainable rural development. Key aspects include enhancing youth and rural women's skills, creating jobs, increasing household incomes, and establishing a unified brand for village products. The plan also focuses on diversifying rural income, improving environmental sustainability through waste recycling, expanding contract farming and mechanization, supporting livestock development, promoting silk and beekeeping industries, and strengthening agricultural cooperatives. Elwaer affirmed FAO's readiness to provide technical expertise and support for the initiative's long-term success.