Maher Elgawly – Copts United – Chicago
In a festive atmosphere reflecting the significance of the occasion, Her Excellency Ambassador Nada Draz, Consul General of Egypt in Chicago and the Midwestern United States, together with Deputy Consul Gina Essam and members of the consular staff, hosted an official reception for the crew of EgyptAir’s inaugural flight, celebrating the launch of the first-ever direct air route between Cairo and Chicago.
The new route is part of EgyptAir’s strategy to expand its presence in North America and strengthen connections between Egypt and the Egyptian and Arab communities residing across the American Midwest. Scheduled flights officially commenced on June 21, 2026, operating three times weekly—on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—using the airline’s newest aircraft, the Airbus A350-900.
In her remarks,
Ambassador Nada Draz emphasized that the new route is not only a convenient travel option but also an economic, cultural, and humanitarian bridge connecting Egypt and the United States. She noted that the service will support tourism, investment, and trade exchange while serving tens of thousands of Egyptians living throughout the Midwest.
The Consul General praised the efforts of EgyptAir and all partner organizations involved in bringing the project to fruition. She highlighted that the Egyptian Consulate had supported this long-awaited community request for years, and that its realization today strengthens Egypt’s presence and influence in one of America’s most important cities.
The reception was attended by a distinguished group of Egyptian and Arab business leaders, representatives of economic and community organizations, as well as Muslim and Christian religious leaders, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm and unity surrounding the launch of the new route.
Faye Nemer, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the MENA American Chamber of Commerce, also delivered remarks welcoming the EgyptAir delegation. She expressed the Chamber’s readiness to cooperate with the national carrier in promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange between the United States and the countries of the Middle East and North Africa.
On the sidelines of the event, Copts United spoke with Ahmed Saad, EgyptAir’s Chicago Station Manager, who thanked the Egyptian Consulate for organizing the special reception for the inaugural flight crew. He described the Consulate as “the home of the Egyptian family” in Chicago. He also announced promotional offers marking the opening of the new office, including discounts of up to 40 percent for a period of two months.
Copts United also interviewed Captain Hossam Refaat, commander of the inaugural flight, and Nevin George, Chief Cabin Crew Member. Both emphasized that the direct Cairo–Chicago route represents a major advancement for travelers. Captain Refaat noted that operating the Airbus A350-900 provides passengers with a more comfortable and efficient travel experience thanks to its long-range capabilities, quieter cabin environment, advanced in-flight entertainment systems, and modern seating specifically designed for long-haul intercontinental flights.
The celebration concluded with a dinner reception featuring a variety of traditional Egyptian dishes, reflecting the spirit of Egypt’s renowned hospitality. Attendees unanimously agreed that the launch of the direct Cairo–Chicago route marks a long-awaited historic achievement, strengthening ties between Egypt and its citizens in the United States while opening new opportunities for economic, tourism, and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
