EgyptAir has responded to British Airways’ sudden suspension of service to Cairo with increased capacity via its brand new 787-9 Dreamliner.
British Airways offered no specific reason for its suspension of service to Cairo for a week, blaming the sudden halt in service on “security concern”. While Lufthansa also suspended service to Cairo for one day, it has since resumed service.
Sensing an opportunity, EgyptAir announced “additional flights” would accommodate passengers stranded by British Airways. Egypt’s Civil Aviation Minister told FlightGlobal that the extra capacity will be provided by a 787.
EgyptAir currently has four Dreamliners in its fleet, but plans to take delivery of its fifth and sixth models this month.
Planned destinations include:
- Dubai
- Frankfurt
- Kuwait
- Paris
- Washington
If British Airways resumes Cairo service next week, we may see the Dreamliner on the route this week only. But if BA holds out longer, we could see the 787 on the LHR route for the foreseeable future.
Thus far, the Dreamliner is not reflected in the schedule, thought I would expect MS 778/777 will remain operated by a 777-300ER while MS 779/780 will be upguaged from a 737-800 to the 787-9.
CONCLUSION
As much as I do enjoy British Airways in Club World (it’s not nearly as bad as some people say), I had a wonderful trip on EgyptAir from London to Cairo on the 777-300ER. The new 787-9 has even better seats in business class and represents a great way to travel between Cairo and London. Take advantage of the equipment upgrade why you can.
> Review: EgyptAir 777-300ER Business Class London To Cairo
image: EgyptAir
The flight to IAD is definitely not “set to begin next month”; I flew it a couple weeks ago.
Matthew, your report may not be accurate:
1. Egyptair started regular service to IAD on June 3 MS982/981 using their newest B789
2. I believe they upgraded their evening departure from LHR MS779/778 to a B789 for a few days after the BA announcement.
I am loyal reader and not associated with Egyptair nor BA
Thanks brother! My error. I’ve fixed it.
This would have been nice when I flew MS779 last month on the 737