Sphinx International Airport

Overview

Sphinx International Airport (SPX) is a modern airport located in Kerdasa, about 30 kilometres west of downtown Cairo. Designed to ease congestion at Cairo International Airport, it primarily serves tourists heading to the ancient sites of Giza and Saqqara, as well as passengers on charter and low-cost flights. The airport is named after the Great Sphinx, the iconic limestone statue that stands on the Giza Plateau, and its location offers some passengers aerial views of the pyramids during approach. Although smaller than Cairo’s main hub, Sphinx International has been expanding its services and now handles a growing number of international flights, especially from Europe and the Middle East. It is also used for private aviation and occasional cargo operations. The airport is owned and operated by the Egyptian government and is part of a broader effort to develop tourism infrastructure around the Giza region.

Location & Access

Sphinx International Airport sits in the Kerdasa area, a district known for its handicrafts and proximity to the Giza pyramid complex. The airport’s address places it roughly 15 kilometres from the Giza Pyramids and 35 kilometres from central Cairo. Travel time by car to the pyramids is about 20–30 minutes under normal traffic, while downtown Cairo can take 45 minutes to an hour. The airport is accessible via the Cairo–Alexandria Desert Road and local roads connecting to the Ring Road.

Public transport options are limited. Most passengers rely on private taxis, ride-hailing services (such as Uber and Careem), or pre-booked airport transfers. Car rental counters are available in the arrivals hall. For those driving, the airport offers both free and paid parking lots. The free parking lot is located close to the terminal, while the paid lot provides additional security and covered spaces. There is no direct metro or train link, but plans for a future light rail connection have been discussed. For passengers needing wheelchair access, the car park, entrance, and toilets are all wheelchair-accessible.

Facilities

Despite its relatively small size, Sphinx International provides essential amenities for travellers. The terminal is equipped with clean, well-maintained toilets, including baby changing tables, making it family-friendly. A baggage storage service is available for passengers who wish to explore the area without luggage. The airport also offers on-site services such as information desks, currency exchange, and a small selection of shops and cafés. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. For passengers with reduced mobility, the entire facility is wheelchair-accessible, from the car park to the boarding gates.

The airport has two main parking options: a free parking lot for short stays and a paid parking lot for longer durations or those wanting extra security. Note that the airport’s operating hours are not 24/7; it is closed on certain days (often low-demand periods). Always check the airport’s website or your airline for current hours. Peak traffic typically occurs around 10 PM and 11 PM, when many charter flights arrive or depart.

About the Region

Sphinx International Airport serves the Giza Governorate, home to some of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. The Giza pyramid complex, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Great Sphinx, is just a short drive away. These monuments date back to the Old Kingdom of ancient Egypt and attract millions of visitors annually. Nearby, the Saqqara necropolis features the Step Pyramid of Djoser, one of the earliest large-scale stone buildings. The region is also known for the Grand Egyptian Museum, currently under partial opening near the pyramids, which will house the full Tutankhamun collection and many other artefacts.

Kerdasa itself is famous for its textile and handicraft markets, where visitors can buy traditional Egyptian garments, carpets, and souvenirs. The area is predominantly residential and agricultural, with a mix of rural and urban landscapes. For travellers, the airport’s location offers a convenient alternative to Cairo’s traffic, allowing quick access to the Giza Plateau and the western desert oases. The climate is hot and dry for most of the year, with mild winters and very warm summers. Dust storms can occasionally affect flights, but the airport is equipped to handle typical weather conditions.

Practical Information

• Website: airportsphinx.com
• Phone: +20 2 35316900
• Address: Kerdasa, Giza Governorate, Egypt
• Hours: The airport is not open daily; operating hours vary by season and flight schedule. It is typically open on days with scheduled flights, often closing on low-demand days. The peak hours are around 10 PM and 11 PM, coinciding with the main charter flight arrivals. It is advisable to confirm flight timings with your airline before travelling.
• Parking: Free and paid parking lots are available. The free lot is open to all, while the paid lot offers additional security features.
• Accessibility: The airport is fully wheelchair-accessible, including car park, entrance, and toilets.
• Services: Baggage storage, changing tables, and on-site services such as currency exchange and small retail outlets are available.

For the most up-to-date information on flight schedules, airport facilities, and transport options, passengers should visit the official website or contact the airport directly by phone.