Arab and foreign carriers resume operations from T4 amid phased airport plan
EgyptAir and FlyDubai launch first flights from Terminal 4 with 422 passengers
The Public Authority of Civil Aviation has activated a phased reallocation of international flight operations to Terminal 4, in a strategic response aimed at preserving continuity in air traffic following the temporary closure of Terminal 1 after a reported security-related incident. The transition reflects a broader effort to stabilize airport operations under revised capacity management.
The first wave of operations saw EgyptAir and FlyDubai resume flights from T4, carrying a total of 422 passengers. EgyptAir transported 242 passengers, while FlyDubai carried 180 passengers, marking an important step in restoring scheduled international operations through the terminal.
According to aviation officials, additional airlines are set to follow a structured timetable. On Thursday, three flights each are scheduled for Middle East Airlines, Emirates, and Syrian Airlines. Gulf Air is expected to operate one flight on Friday, while Nile Air and Yemenia will each operate two flights on Saturday.
Mansour Al-Hashemi, Director of Operations at the General Authority of Civil Aviation, said the resumption of flights reflects a carefully coordinated operational plan developed with all relevant airport stakeholders, including ground handling companies and airline partners. He noted that the emergency framework aligns with Civil Defense requirements and is designed to ensure safe and efficient passenger movement under restricted terminal capacity.
He explained that Terminal 4 is currently operating under controlled capacity management, with specific hourly quotas for departing and arriving passengers to prevent congestion and maintain service quality. Operations are limited to defined working hours, from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Al-Hashemi added that demand from airlines wishing to resume or expand operations is increasing, with several carriers already submitting formal requests. Scheduling is being coordinated with the Air Transport Department to ensure balanced distribution of flight slots among operators.
He also confirmed that operational readiness measures include the activation of 50 check-in counters for baggage handling and boarding procedures, along with full operation of passport control and customs facilities. Emergency response and maintenance teams remain on standby around the clock to address any technical issues.
To support passenger flow, airport services have been reinforced with additional ground handling staff, luggage trolleys, and assistance for elderly passengers and people with special needs. Traffic coordination measures have also been implemented outside the terminal to ease vehicle movement and reduce congestion.
Officials emphasized that the current phase represents a flexible and scalable operating model aimed at accommodating more airlines gradually while maintaining safety standards and service efficiency at Terminal 4.
