Cairo West Airport
Welcome to Cairo West Airport. This military airport sits on the western side of Cairo, Egypt. It shares some facilities with the nearby Sphinx International Airport. Cairo West Airport is home to the Egyptian Fighter Weapon School. It also hosts several squadrons that operate F-16C/D fighter jets and E-2C aircraft. Additionally, a detachment of C-130H planes operates from this base. While it mainly serves military purposes, it plays a key role in Egypt's aviation landscape.
Live Air Traffic
Cairo West Airport is a military airport located on the western side of Cairo, Egypt. It has the IATA code CWE and the ICAO code HECW. The airport shares some facilities with the nearby Sphinx International Airport. Cairo West Airport serves as a base for the Egyptian Fighter Weapon School. It hosts several squadrons, including the 95th and 97th Squadrons of the 292nd Tactical Fighter Wing. These squadrons operate F-16C/D fighter jets. The airport also supports the 87th Squadron of the 601st Air Wing, which uses E-2C aircraft. Additionally, a detachment from the 16th Squadron of the 516th Air Wing operates C-130H transport planes from this base. Cairo West Airport plays a key role in Egypt's military aviation operations.
Basic information about airport
| Airport code: | HECW |
|---|---|
| Type: | medium |
| Continent: | AF |
| Country code: | EG |
| Country: | Egypt |
| City | El |
| IATA: | CWE |
| Longitude: | 30.915399551399997 |
| Latitude: | 30.116399765 |
Cairo West Airport on Google Maps
Giza Governorate 
Clear sky- Humidity: 77
- Wind: 1.88 m/sec
Clear sky
Humidity: 77
Wind: 1.88 m/sec 24 C / 75.2 °F
29 C / 84.2 °F
28 C / 82.4 °F
30 C / 86 °F
33 C / 91.4 °F
Cairo West Airport: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Cairo West Airport (IATA: CWE, ICAO: HECW) is a military airbase located on the western side of Cairo, Egypt. While primarily serving military operations, it shares some infrastructure with the adjacent Sphinx International Airport, making it a unique hub in the region. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of Cairo West Airport, covering its airlines, destinations, passenger statistics, transportation options, terminal layout, services, and travel tips.
Airlines and Destinations
Cairo West Airport is primarily a military facility and does not operate scheduled commercial passenger flights. However, it plays a crucial role in supporting military aviation and training operations. The airport is home to the Egyptian Fighter Weapon School and various squadrons equipped with advanced aircraft, including F-16C/Ds and E-2Cs. While there are no commercial airlines operating from this airport, its proximity to Sphinx International Airport allows for easy access to a range of domestic and international destinations.
Number of Passengers and Flights
As a military airport, Cairo West Airport does not have publicly available statistics on passenger numbers or commercial flights. The airport primarily facilitates military operations and training exercises, which means that the volume of air traffic is significantly lower than that of civilian airports. For travelers looking for commercial flight options, Sphinx International Airport and Cairo International Airport are the recommended alternatives.
How to Get Here
Getting to Cairo West Airport can be a bit challenging due to its military designation. There are no direct public transport services to the airport. However, travelers can reach the airport by taking a taxi or private car from central Cairo. The journey typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For those who prefer a more organized approach, renting a car is also an option, allowing for greater flexibility during your stay in Cairo.
Parking
Cairo West Airport offers limited parking facilities primarily for military personnel and authorized visitors. Due to its military status, public access is restricted, and parking options may not be available for civilian travelers. For those visiting the airport for official purposes, it is advisable to check in advance regarding parking availability and regulations.
Transportation Price
Transportation prices to and from Cairo West Airport can vary. A taxi ride from central Cairo to the airport typically costs between EGP 100 and EGP 200 (approximately $6 to $12 USD), depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. For those opting for private car services, rates can start at around $45 for a one-way trip. It is advisable to negotiate fares in advance or use a reputable ride-hailing app for convenience.
Terminal Layout
Cairo West Airport does not have a traditional terminal layout like commercial airports. The facilities are primarily designed for military operations, and there are no dedicated passenger terminals. Visitors should be aware that access to the airport is restricted, and it is essential to have the necessary permissions to enter the premises.
Navigate the Airport
Navigating Cairo West Airport can be straightforward for those familiar with military installations. However, due to its limited facilities and lack of commercial services, travelers should be prepared for a more utilitarian environment. Signage may not be as comprehensive as in civilian airports, so it is advisable to have a clear understanding of your purpose for visiting the airport.
Getting Between Terminals
As Cairo West Airport does not operate commercial flights or have multiple terminals, there is no need for inter-terminal transportation. Visitors should plan their visit according to the specific military operations or events they are attending.
Services and Amenities
Cairo West Airport is primarily a military facility, and as such, it does not offer the extensive range of services and amenities found in commercial airports. Basic facilities may include administrative offices and limited waiting areas. Travelers should not expect amenities such as lounges, shopping, or dining options.
Restaurants and Shops
Due to its military designation, Cairo West Airport does not feature restaurants or shops typically found in civilian airports. Visitors should plan to eat and shop before arriving at the airport. For those traveling to or from the area, nearby locations in Cairo offer a variety of dining and shopping options.
Security and Customs
Security at Cairo West Airport is stringent due to its military status. Access is restricted to authorized personnel and visitors with the necessary permissions. Travelers should expect thorough security checks and should carry identification and any required documentation. Customs procedures are not applicable for civilian travelers, as the airport does not handle commercial flights.
Accessibility
Cairo West Airport is primarily designed for military use, and as such, it may not be fully equipped with accessibility features for travelers with disabilities. Visitors should check in advance regarding any specific needs or accommodations required during their visit.
Travel Tips
- Plan Ahead: Due to the military nature of Cairo West Airport, ensure you have the necessary permissions and documentation before your visit.
- Transportation: Arrange for transportation in advance, as public transport options are limited.
- Timing: Allow extra time for travel to the airport, especially during peak traffic hours in Cairo.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated on any changes to access regulations or security protocols at the airport.
- Alternative Airports: Consider using Sphinx International Airport or Cairo International Airport for commercial travel needs.
In conclusion, while Cairo West Airport serves a vital role in military aviation, it is not a conventional airport for commercial travel. Visitors should be well-prepared and informed about the unique nature of this facility to ensure a smooth experience. For those seeking commercial flight options, nearby airports provide a more suitable alternative.