Farouk Al-Azhari

Founder of EgyptAir who revolutionized aviation in the Arab world and promoted Pan-Arab cooperation

Farouk Al-Azhari (1898-1980) was an Egyptian aviation pioneer and businessman who co-founded Egyptair (Misr Airway Company) in 1932, laying the foundation for modern aviation in the Arab world. Born into a prominent family in Cairo, Al-Azhari's vision extended beyond mere transportation - he sought to connect Arab nations through air routes that would foster cultural exchange and economic integration. His efforts established Cairo as a key hub in the global aviation network, with routes linking Europe to Asia through the Suez Canal region. Al-Azhari also played a pivotal role in training Arab pilots and mechanics, creating one of the first aviation schools in the Middle East. During WWII, Egyptair planes were used to transport critical supplies to Allied forces in North Africa, demonstrating the strategic importance of his infrastructure. Later, he advocated for regional aviation alliances that prefigured modern Middle Eastern airline partnerships. His legacy endures in Egypt's aviation infrastructure and the Pan-Arab aviation networks still in use today. Read more on Wikipedia and explore his contributions at EgyptAir's official history page.