Table of Contents
- Why Fly from Cairo to Socotra in 2026?
- Flight from Cairo to Socotra: Route Overview
- Cairo to Socotra Flights Schedule 2026
- How to Book Cairo to Socotra Flights?
- Cairo to Socotra Flight Cost
- Visa Requirements for Flights via Aden
- Step-by-Step: What to Expect on Travel Experience
- Alternative Routes to Socotra Airport (SCT)
- Essential Travel Tips
- FAQs about Cairo to Socotra flights
Take Cairo to Socotra flights and land on Socotra Island after an 8-hour flight time to embark on an adventurous Socotra tour! That is not a non-stop Socotra flight. If you choose the flights from Cairo to Socotra, you need to catch a connecting flight in Aden and stay there for an additional overnight. Before the advent of Jeddah to Socotra Flights in 2026, Cairo to Socotra flights were the primary option to Socotra during the suspension of Abu Dhabi to Socotra Flights.
The Isle of Socotra is not just renowned as the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to the rich biodiversity. Embracing the magical nature and strolling along the pristine white sand beach are two of the best things to do in Socotra.
If you’ve already prepared for your Socotra tour, this Socotra travel update for 2026 will make your visit go more smoothly. It contains everything you need to know about the Cairo to Socotra flights, covering booking tips, flight schedule, travel process, and other alternatives.
Why Fly from Cairo to Socotra in 2026?
For travelers from Europe, Cairo International Airport can be a traditional transit hub. This flight departs from Cairo, Egypt, with a connecting flight in the Yemeni city of Aden before heading to Socotra. This route has always been a backup option for travelers to Socotra, no matter when the Abu Dhabi route was cancelled, or when Jeddah to Socotra flights are opened.
Flight from Cairo to Socotra: Route Overview
Flight Distance: Approximately 2,300-2,500 km between Cairo International Airport (CAI) and Socotra Airport (SCT) (transit through Aden International Airport)
Flight Duration: About 4.5 hours flight time from Cairo to Aden and 3 hours from Aden to Socotra
Frequency: Twice weekly departures
Price Estimates: Starting from about $1,100 for a round-trip (subject to change due to demand)
Operating Airline: Yemenia Airways
Cairo to Socotra Flights Schedule 2026
Weekly Departure Schedule
Cairo (CAI) → Aden (ADE)
| Dep-Arr Port | Day | Flight Number | STD | STA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAI-ADE | Monday | IY-601 | 9:30 | 14:00 |
| CAI-ADE | Monday | IY-613 | 21:30 | 2:00 |
| CAI-ADE | Tuesday | IY-603 | 18:45 | 23:15 |
| CAI-ADE | Wednesday | IY-609 | 9:30 | 14:00 |
| CAI-ADE | Wednesday | IY-613 | 21:30 | 2:00 |
| CAI-ADE | Thursday | IY-603 | 18:45 | 23:15 |
| CAI-ADE | Friday | IY-613 | 7:00 | 11:30 |
| CAI-ADE | Saturday | IY-607 | 10:45 | 17:00 |
| CAI-ADE | Saturday | IY-609 | 15:30 | 20:00 |
| CAI-ADE | Sunday | IY-609 | 15:45 | 20:15 |
| CAI-ADE | Sunday | IY-611 | 22:30 | 3:00 |
Aden (ADE) → Socotra (SCT)
| Dep-Arr Port | Day | Flight Number | STD | STA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADE-SCT | Thursday | IY-430 | 9:00 | 12:30 |
| ADE-SCT | Sunday | IY-420 | 8:00 | 10:45 |
Aden (ADE) → Cairo (CAI)
| Dep-Arr Port | Day | Flight Number | STD | STA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADE-CAI | Monday | IY-600 | 6:00 | 8:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Monday | IY-612 | 18:00 | 20:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Tuesday | IY-602 | 6:00 | 8:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Wednesday | IY-608 | 6:00 | 8:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Wednesday | IY-612 | 18:00 | 20:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Thursday | IY-602 | 6:00 | 8:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Friday | IY-612 | 3:30 | 6:00 |
| ADE-CAI | Saturday | IY-606 | 5:00 | 9:45 |
| ADE-CAI | Saturday | IY-608 | 12:00 | 14:30 |
| ADE-CAI | Sunday | IY-608 | 3:30 | 6:00 |
| ADE-CAI | Sunday | IY-610 | 19:00 | 21:30 |
Operating Season
Flights from Cairo to Socotra typically operate from early October to early April, which is the best travel season to the Socotra Archipelago. But it is not available all year round. When it comes to the summer monsoon season, this route tends to be grounded.
How to Book Cairo to Socotra Flights?
No Online Reservation: Cairo to Socotra flight tickets cannot be booked online.
Booking through a Local Tour Operator: Socotra tourism is protected by the government, and it requires local tour agencies to be a sponsor. So you can only book through a local Socotra tour operator, and the flight arrangements and visa documentation are usually bundled with a tour package.
How Far in Advance to Book: 30-45 days before departure is ideal for Socotra flight bookings.
Cairo to Socotra Flight Cost
Ticket Prices
The ticket price for flights from Cairo to Socotra generally remains the same, with a starting price of $1,100 for a round trip. It slightly fluctuates according to cabins and demands.
What's Included in Tour Packages
The flight ticket price only covers the transport for a round trip. And a Socotra tour package usually involves flight tickets, visa application, hotels, camping, meals, and local transit.
Visa Requirements for Flights via Aden
You cannot obtain the visa on arrival, so apply for your visa beforehand, which is included in our Socotra Island tour packages. It is estimated to take 1-3 weeks to gain the visa, valid for 30 days. During the period, you can only enter Socotra Island. Besides, if spending a night in Aden, you need to separately apply for a Yemen visa in advance. A Yemen visa costs an extra fee of about 300 USD to 1,000 USD, based on the specific city of Yemen.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect on Travel Experience
Before Departure from Cairo (CAI)
Get to Cairo International Airport (CAI) at least 3-4 hours before departure.
Flights to Socotra Island depart from Terminal 1, about a 5-10-minute walk.
Show your printed Socotra digital visa and passport at check-in.
Board the flight from Cairo to Socotra, operated by Yemenia Airways.
Flight Connection in Aden (ADE)
Land at Aden International Airport (ADE) after about a 3-hour flight time, usually at midnight.
Take the shuttle bus to the terminal and gather in the designated zone.
Proceed to immigration to present your visa and surrender your passport until the next day to Socorta Island.
Head to the hotel and stay overnight.
Back to Aden Airport and take the passport to go through security.
Board the plane to Socotra.
Arrival at Socotra Airport (SCT)
Upon arrival at Hadibo Airport, proceed to immigration.
Telling the customs staff in advance if you do not want to have your passport stamped. You will get the stamp on a note.
About 20-30 minutes to get through Socotra customs.
Meet your tour guide and driver outside the arrival areas.
Alternative Routes to Socotra Airport (SCT)
Jeddah to Socotra (New 2026 Route)
Jeddah to Socotra flight is a new non-stop route in 2026, also operated by Yemenia Airways. But it will stop at Al Mukalla Airport to refuel for about 1-105 hours when returning to Jeddah. The flight's opening deals with the suspension of the Abu Dhabi Route. And now, it has become the primary flight to Socotra, Yemen. This route operates once weekly during the peak travel season of Socotra. For the monsoon season, the flight may be reduced.
Abu Dhabi Route (Temporarily Suspended)
The Abu Dhabi to Socotra flight was previously the most popular route, but now it has been temporarily suspended at the beginning of 2026. Due to the regional dynamics of the Middle East, carriers from Yemen are prohibited in the United Arab Emirates (UAD). Therefore, there is no direct flight from Abu Dhabi to Socotra currently. We will update with the newest flight information about it.
Ferry from Mainland Yemen
Apart from flying to Socotra Island, taking the ferry from mainland Yemen is also an option. But it is not recommended for travelers, as it is not an official way. The ferry does not have a schedule open to the public and lacks safety standards. They are mainly for locals and cargo, and there are no comfortable facilities on the ferry.
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Socotra
The best time to visit Socotra is from October to April. With stable sea conditions and pleasant weather, these months provide visitors with the optimal conditions to enjoy diverse water sports, like snorkeling and diving. Also, it is a great chance to explore more unique endemic flora and fauna and other Socotra attractions. From February to April, you can not only enjoy the cool weather, but also capture the full blossom of the Socotra Desert Rose. But it is not advisable to visit Socotra Island during the summer monsoon season from late May to September to avoid the murderous heat and strong currents.
Packing Essentials
Sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and scarves.
Sturdy hiking shoes are for steep terrains. Sandals and water shoes are for the beach and pools.
Light and breathable clothes and swimsuits are convenient for hiking and swimming.
Large capacity power bank, extra battery, and water bags for devices.
Various cameras and lenses for stunning views on Socotra Island.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is necessary for a trip to Socotra. You are recommended to buy the insurance covering the medical services before departure, which can make you feel more at ease. Check if it contains remote travel areas, as some insurances exclude Yemen.
FAQs about Cairo to Socotra flights
1. Can I book a flight from Cairo to Socotra online?
No, flights from Cairo to Socotra are not available online. You need to find a licensed local tour operator who can deal with the flights, visa, accommodation, meals, and transport as part of the Socotra tour packages.
2. How long is the flight from Cairo to Socotra?
It is approximately 4.5 hours from Cairo to Aden and 3 hours from Aden to Socotra. Therefore, you will spend about 7 or 8 hours on the plane.
3. How much does a Cairo to Socotra flight cost?
The cost of Cairo to Socotra flights typically starts at about 1,100 USD, containing 200 USD for the Socotra visa. Feel free to contact us for your Socotra Island tour. With our assistance, you don’t have to worry about how to book a flight to Socotra.
4. Are flights to Socotra refundable?
No, flights to Socotra are not refundable. It will be refundable only when there is an air traffic control before departure.
5. Can I fly to Socotra from Dubai?
Currently, there is no direct flight from Dubai to Socotra after the cancellation of the Abu Dhabi route.
6. Do I need a visa for a connection in Aden to Socotra?
Yes, when you land in Aden Airport, you are required to show a Yemen visa. It is usually not included in a tour package. And it needs 300 USD-1,000 USD to apply for a Yemen visa, and the price varies from city to city.
Book Your Socotra Flights with Wild Socotra Tours
Though the gateways keep changing, the Socotra Island tour is still well-organized. A Socotra guided tour from Wild Socotra Tours will bring you an ultimate travel experience from hiking the spectacular Socotra Dragon Blood Tree plateau to strolling along the stunning and untouched coastline. Get started on your journey to Socotra with us to discover more highlights!
Do not hesitate to contact us to design your customized trip to Socotra based on your preference and pace. And we will help you save a lot of trouble in visa processing, booking tickets, and ground transport.
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