Booking domestic flights

Direct flights from St. Petersburg (LED) to Sharm El Sheikh (SSH) are available. Airlines that have previously operated or are currently operating this route include Aeroflot, Nesma Airlines, and Air Cairo. Al Masria is also an option, often described as a low-cost carrier. Passengers report varying experiences with Al Masria, with some finding it acceptable regarding punctuality and service (e.g., including a snack), while others suggest considering connecting flights or package tours due to price or perceived quality differences. Flight aggregators like Aviasales can be used to search for options, though prices can be high. Package tours might offer better value.

Understanding flight regulations for Egypt: If arriving by charter, departure can be by regular flight from the same airport. If arriving by regular flight, departure can be by regular flight from any airport. If arriving by charter and departing by regular flight from a different airport, it's allowed but regulated. For stays under 28 days, departure rules are more flexible regardless of flight type.

Queries were made regarding charter flights with Nesma and Intourist airlines to Egypt. Based on user feedback, flights with these airlines have reportedly been without issues.

For excursions between Egyptian cities (e.g., Sharm El Sheikh to Hurghada), consider using internal flights. Local airlines often operate special flights for tourists. When booking such excursions, ensure all necessary visas are obtained if regional travel requires them. Search for 'excursions by plane to Hurghada' or similar terms through tour operators or flight aggregators.

Al Masria is a low-cost airline operating flights, including routes to/from Egypt. Passenger experiences vary: some report minimal delays and punctual departures, with basic in-flight service (e.g., a sandwich, juice, water). Compared to airlines like Pobeda, Al Masria is considered more passenger-friendly by some. It is important to note that low-cost carriers typically have fewer amenities and stricter policies. If considering Al Masria, research recent passenger reviews for the most up-to-date information on their service standards and reliability.

Tourists arriving in Egypt on a regular flight can depart on any flight without violating their stay duration, provided the visa terms are met. Specific rules apply to stays exceeding 28 days; for shorter stays (e.g., 11 days), the type of return flight is less critical. Some flights are 'quasi-charters,' which are regular flights where tour operators purchase blocks of seats and sell them as charter packages. The status of a flight (regular vs. charter) can often be identified by its flight number and letters. Aeroflot (SU) flights are generally considered regular. It's advisable to verify the flight status for clarity.

If you arrive in Egypt on a regular flight, you must depart on a regular flight. You will not be allowed to register for a charter flight. This rule applies regardless of the length of your stay. Conversely, if you arrive on a charter flight, you can depart on a regular flight. Some sources suggest that in Sharm El Sheikh, this rule may not be strictly enforced, but it is risky. Tour operators sometimes purchase blocks of seats on regular flights and sell them as charter.

For domestic flights within Egypt, Marsa Alam Airport is an option. Hurghada Airport is generally less crowded for domestic flights, with 1.5 hours or even 1 hour and 15 minutes recommended for arrival before the flight.

Flights between Russia and Egypt frequently experience technical stops in Russian cities (e.g., Ufa, Samara, Omsk) and significant delays. Online departure/arrival boards for Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada airports are often unreliable or offline. Travelers should prioritize checking the arrival airport's official website in the destination city in Russia to get real-time status of their incoming charter flight.