Ahmed Salah is General Manager of Egypt Cargo Center, a new cargo village at Cairo Airport with direct access to both landside and airside.
“Before this, I spent 18 years with IATA as Regional Manager for the Middle East. Earlier, I was Regional Director at DHL Global Forwarding, and my career started with Swissair, where I worked for 23 years, managing operations across Egypt, Libya, Cyprus, and Lebanon,” said Ahmed Salah.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
For years, my dream was to be a sea pilot.
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry?
So many challenges! When I started, everything was manual — the manifest, the air waybill, even typewriters. At IATA, I helped develop the electronic air waybill, and now the entire industry benefits from that shift toward automation.
What’s the most unusual cargo you’ve received?
Ashes — human remains. It’s unusual, but not unheard of.
What’s the best business lesson you’ve learned?
When I was young, a customer came in wearing simple clothes. I treated him professionally, of course, — and later found out he was an ambassador. Never judge a customer by appearance. Always be professional.
Which three items would you take to a deserted island?
My wife, my daughter, and my son.
What’s the most exciting place you’ve visited for work?
Zurich. I have the best memories from my 23 years with Swissair. It’s still my favourite.
If you could introduce one new regulation, what would it be?
Something to further enhance automation in airfreight. There are many regulations, but we need more focus on automation itself.
What excites you most about your current role?
I’m part of the team managing the newest cargo terminal at Cairo Airport.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Fishing — especially deep-sea fishing. I’ve faced many dangerous situations. Once, I even thought I might sink.
Who would you most like to have dinner with, living or dead?
My dad and mom, definitely. And my wife.
What’s something we wouldn’t know about you?
I’m a completely transparent person. I say everything — even if it’s against myself. What you see is what you get.
