During a press conference held on the 19th of February, Minister of Civil Aviation, Ahmed Shafik, announced that more than 90% of the construction taking place for the new Terminal 3 building is complete. He stated that he insisted on inviting all journalists to attend so they can personally witness the progress of the terminal, prior to the official opening, which is due to take place in the second half of 2008.

Shafik confirmed that his main concern was not just a new terminal building, but that he has a whole new vision for the Cairo International Airport – inside and out. He is looking to develop it as a whole to meet international standards, beginning with new solutions for the traffic leading to the airport. He will be constructing a new entrance which will help minimize the existing traffic pressure on Salah Salem road – the only road that leads to the airport. Additionally, a multi-storey garage will be built to solve the current parking problems.

Moreover, he unveiled plans of building a 5-star hotel within the airport complex, and that it will be managed by Starwood Hotels.