Cairo: EgyptAir, the national airline, is set to commence direct flights from Cairo to Los Angeles by June 2026, as announced by Civil Aviation Minister Sameh El-Hefny. This development comes as the airline prepares to receive its second long-haul Airbus A350 aircraft, which is essential for operating such long-distance routes. The flights to Chicago are planned for a subsequent phase, with further expansion to Asian destinations, including China, anticipated. According to State Information Service Egypt, Minister El-Hefny shared that the direct flights to Los Angeles could not be initiated with only one Airbus A350 due to the distance involved. The commencement of these flights is contingent upon the delivery of the second aircraft, expected by the end of April or early May. These flights aim to serve the significant Egyptian community residing in Los Angeles and to draw tourists from the western United States. The minister also outlined EgyptAir's broader expansion strategy, which includes new routes to C hicago and Asia as more aircraft are delivered. By the end of 2026 and into 2027, EgyptAir plans to add 28 new aircraft to its fleet, comprising 10 Airbus A350 and 18 Boeing 737 MAX planes, with an additional six Airbus A350 deliveries scheduled by 2030.