EGYPTAIR is strongly expanding its network in the European market adding seven new destinations in the Spanish market. The carrier took part in the 30th edition of FITUR (Feria Internacional de Turismo) in Madrid which took place from 19-22 January. The event which is the second largest in the world is a major global platform for tourism promotion and sales. The fair was inaugurated by Spain's king and queen, Juan Carlos and Sofia. The carrier had a unique pavilion with a new design served by a professional team from the airline marketing, commercial and advertising staff. The exhibition targetted tourism industry professionals for the first three days, and then the general public for the final two days. This year it was attended by 13,000 exhibitors from 170 countries and 100,000 visitors. "This five-day fair is a great business centre, creating the ideal framework to generate trade relations, since this is Madrid's great annual tourism event," explained Amr Abbas, EgyptAir Spain and Portugal area manager. According to Abbas, the travel movement between Egypt and Spain has grown by 15 per cent despite the world financial crisis. Being one of the most promising European markets, the carrier stepped forward to extend its network to more points in Spanish lands. "The new summer flight schedules will witness an active movement to take our passengers far into the Spanish cities. We have reached a codeshare agreement with SpanAir under which we will reach seven new cities," explained Alla Ashour, EgyptAir Airline chairman. "The new points include: Bella Mallorca, Malaga, Ibiza , Asheville and Alicante." At present, the airline operates 12 flights weekly to Madrid and Barcelona. "We also intend to increase operation to Lisbon to three flights weekly starting from August instead of two at present," Ashour added. An official delegation headed by Tourism Minister Zoheir Gurana and top Egyptian Tourist Board officials attended the event.
