Bus 111 hits Terminal 1 and 3 and runs cheap
CTA Bus 111 connects Cairo International Airport to central Cairo for a few Egyptian pounds, and it serves both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 directly from the curbside public bus stops. This is a regular Cairo Transport Authority public route, not a special airport coach, so expect city-bus levels of comfort and crowding at peak times.
From Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, Bus 111 usually runs every 20–40 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. It operates roughly from early morning to late evening, in line with standard Cairo city bus hours, so don’t count on it after midnight or in the small hours. Always confirm the current timetable locally, as city routes can shift with construction or traffic changes.
A single ride on CTA Bus 111 costs only a few EGP, paid directly to the conductor or driver in cash; there’s no card machine or contactless option. Bring small notes and coins, as drivers typically can’t break large bills like 200 EGP. There is no luggage surcharge listed, but space is tight, so large checked bags may end up blocking the aisle if the bus is crowded.
Bus 111 stops at marked Cairo Transport Authority bus bays outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 3; follow the “Public Bus” or “CTA” signs after exiting the arrivals hall. The stop areas are shared with other routes, so check the bus number “111” on the front and side of the vehicle before boarding. If in doubt, ask the driver to confirm “Cairo” or your specific district in simple English or Arabic.
The route of Bus 111 typically passes through major Cairo districts on the way from the airport, linking CAI with central areas that connect to other buses and local microbuses. Traffic on Salah Salem Street and into downtown can add 30–60 minutes to what might otherwise be a shorter ride, so a trip that looks like 30 minutes on a map can easily stretch to an hour or more at rush hour.
For arrival planning, assume at least 15–20 minutes from landing in Terminal 2 or the Seasonal terminal to walking over to the Bus 111 stop at Terminal 1 or 3, including immigration, baggage claim, and a quick ATM stop to get small EGP notes. One practical tip: if you land late or have more than one large suitcase per person, weigh the savings of Bus 111 against the time and hassle, and keep a backup plan like a metered white taxi or app car in mind.