Cairo: Civil Aviation Minister Sameh El-Hefny announced that Egypt is progressing with a comprehensive plan to modernize its airport system by adopting advanced operating models. The initiative seeks to leverage international expertise and transfer global best practices to national professionals.According to State Information Service Egypt, the plan aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance passenger services, expand airport capacity, and support the continued growth of air traffic and tourism. El-Hefny made these remarks during a series of meetings focused on reviewing the final stages of a program to tender the management and operation of Hurghada International Airport. This effort is in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is providing advisory support for public-private partnership initiatives.The meetings included participants such as Permanent Undersecretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation Amr Nagaty, Chairman of the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation Ayman Fawzy, Chairman of the Egyptian Airports Company Wael El-Nashar, and representatives from the IFC and other specialists. The initiative aligns with the state's strategy to develop Egypt's civil aviation sector by expanding private sector participation in airport management and operations, consistent with the objectives of the State Ownership Policy Document. It also aims to enhance airport performance according to leading international standards.Officials reviewed the program's progress and discussed the final steps required to launch the tender process, emphasizing transparency, competitiveness, and efficiency. The program is anticipated to strengthen airport operations and improve service quality for travelers. El-Hefny highlighted the government's commitment to increasing private sector involvement as a strategic partner in development through professional operating models, aiming to optimize the efficiency of national assets, improve economic returns, and ensure sustainable developm ent in the civil aviation sector.The minister reiterated that the state will maintain ownership of Egypt's airports and full sovereignty over all related assets, a fundamental national principle. He noted that the program is proceeding according to its timeline and will soon advance to further implementation phases. The next stage will involve completing executive procedures to enhance the competitiveness of Egyptian airports, establish them as regional aviation hubs, and support the goals of Egypt Vision 2030, driving sustainable growth in the aviation and tourism sectors.