EgyptAir Launches Nonstop Cairo–Los Angeles Flights from 23 May
EgyptAir will begin nonstop service between Cairo International Airport (CAI) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on 23 May 2026, operating three flights per week aboard the Airbus A350-900. The route is the first direct air link between Egypt and the US West Coast — and becomes EgyptAir’s longest route in its history.
Until now, travellers between Egypt and California had to connect through European or Gulf hubs, typically adding four to eight hours to total journey time. The new nonstop service removes that.
Route details
EgyptAir will operate Cairo–Los Angeles three times weekly on the wide-body Airbus A350-900. Flight time on the route is approximately 16–17 hours. Tickets are available through EgyptAir’s official website and standard booking platforms.
A second long-haul US route follows: Cairo–Chicago O’Hare (ORD) launches 21 June 2026, operating on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — also on the A350-900.
EgyptAir is also expanding its short and medium-haul network, having recently inducted its first Boeing 737 MAX 8 into the fleet for European and Middle Eastern routes. The airline is targeting 85 destinations in 2026.
What this means if you’re travelling from the US
For visitors flying from California, the Pacific Northwest, or anywhere with convenient LAX connections, this is a real improvement. Direct service eliminates transit complexity and reduces the physical burden of a long-haul trip — particularly welcome for first-time visitors managing tighter itineraries.
Chicago’s O’Hare service (from 21 June) extends this access to the US Midwest. Travellers in other US cities may still benefit by positioning through LAX or ORD rather than routing via Europe.
Planning your arrival into Cairo
Cairo International Airport sits in the northeast of the city. From there, the main tourist destinations are well connected. We cover all transport options — sleeper trains, domestic flights, buses, and Cairo’s metro — in our Getting Around Egypt guide.
US citizens require a valid visa before arrival. The Egypt e-Visa takes minutes to apply for online, costs $30, and is valid for 30 days. Full details including multi-entry options and the Sinai stamp are in our Egypt Visa Guide.
Cairo itself deserves at least two days before heading south. Our Cairo city guide covers the Grand Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo, Khan el-Khalili, and practical logistics including airport transit hotels.