In today's rapidly evolving global trade landscape, efficient and reliable air cargo services have become indispensable. EgyptAir, Africa's oldest airline, plays a pivotal role in connecting the continent with Middle Eastern, European, and Asian markets through its extensive network and strategic hub in Cairo.
1. EgyptAir Cargo Service Overview
Founded in 1932 and headquartered in Cairo, EgyptAir has developed a global network spanning 80 cities across four continents over nearly a century of operation. Cairo International Airport (CAI) serves as the airline's primary hub, leveraging its geographical advantage to efficiently link African, Middle Eastern, and European markets.
Route Network and Capacity Distribution
EgyptAir's hub-and-spoke system radiates from Cairo, with African routes constituting 37.5% of its total network. The airline operates over 100 daily flights from its Cairo hub, connecting 18 African airports and 8 Middle Eastern airports. This dense network provides customers with diverse shipping options and enhanced flexibility.
Key Service Regions
- Africa: Major cities including Johannesburg (JNB), Lagos (LOS), and Nairobi (NBO) serve as crucial cargo nodes.
- Middle East: Commercial centers like Dubai (DXB), Riyadh (RUH), and Doha (DOH) connect with African and European markets.
- Europe: Key gateways include London (LHR), Paris (CDG), and Frankfurt (FRA).
- Asia: Emerging markets such as Guangzhou (CAN), Mumbai (BOM), and Kuala Lumpur (KUL) benefit from efficient trade corridors.
Case Example: A shipment traveling from Cairo (CAI) to Guangzhou (CAN) via Dubai (DXB) typically completes the journey in 5-7 days, demonstrating EgyptAir's effective hub connectivity.
2. Comprehensive Cargo Tracking Process
EgyptAir provides a user-friendly online tracking system for real-time shipment monitoring:
Tracking Portal Access
Users can access the tracking system through:
- The official EgyptAir website's cargo section
- Direct link to the tracking portal
Air Waybill Number Requirements
The tracking system requires a complete Air Waybill (AWB) number in the format "MS-XXXXXXXX", where "MS" represents EgyptAir's IATA code followed by an 8-digit serial number.
Status Indicators
- Booked: Cargo received and awaiting transportation
- In Transit: Shipment en route to destination
- In Transit - Transfer: Cargo at intermediate hub
- Delivered: Arrived at destination airport
- Customs Clearance: Undergoing customs inspection
The tracking system updates every 15 minutes and maintains status history for 180 days. Alternative tracking platforms include 17TRACK and TrackTrace for comprehensive logistics monitoring.
3. AWB Number Format and Query Validity
EgyptAir's 10-character AWB numbers follow the "MS-XXXXXXXX" structure, with the first two characters identifying the carrier and the remaining eight serving as unique shipment identifiers.
Tracking remains available throughout transit and for 180 days post-delivery. The system automatically flags shipments delayed beyond five days for special attention.
4. Troubleshooting Tracking Issues
Common tracking problems and solutions include:
Potential Issues
- Incorrect AWB number format
- Data synchronization delays
- Technical system outages
Resolution Methods
- Allow 1-2 hours for system updates before retrying
- Contact customer support for persistent issues
5. Transit Times and Influencing Factors
Typical shipping durations vary by route:
- Intra-Africa: 2-3 days (e.g., Cairo-Johannesburg)
- Africa-Asia: 5-7 days (e.g., Cairo-Guangzhou)
- Intercontinental: 7-9 days (e.g., Lagos-London via Cairo)
Key factors affecting transit times include adverse weather conditions (particularly Saharan dust storms), flight scheduling efficiency, and varying customs clearance durations across countries.
6. Special Cargo Handling and Cost Structure
EgyptAir accommodates various special cargo types with specific requirements:
Specialized Shipments
- Temperature-controlled goods (e.g., vaccines requiring 2-8°C)
- Live animals (compliant with IATA Live Animals Regulations)
- Restricted hazardous materials (categories 2-9 with proper certification)
Pricing Components
The airline calculates charges based on either actual weight or volumetric weight (length × width × height/6000), whichever is greater. Additional fees include variable fuel surcharges, currently averaging 15% of base freight costs.
7. Asian Market Service Network
EgyptAir maintains dedicated cargo facilities in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, complemented by partnerships with international logistics providers for last-mile delivery. The airline extends its Asian coverage through Singapore (SIN) and Kuala Lumpur (KUL) hubs.
Recommended logistics partners for cross-border operations include established freight forwarders and e-commerce logistics platforms that integrate with EgyptAir's cargo capacity.