Upon returning from the United States, the private jet transporting the Egyptian national football team landed at Alamein International Airport amidst widespread national pride and enthusiastic celebrations. The squad brought home the success of a significant campaign at the 2026 World Cup.
As the aircraft's tires touched down on the tarmac, an official reception commenced with a grand display of national honor. Two fire engines were positioned along the runway and used high-pressure water cannons. These cannons sprayed water in graceful arcs over the fuselage, creating a magnificent 'water arch' to welcome the team back to Egypt.
This impressive ritual is not a random act but part of an established and prestigious global aviation tradition known as the 'Water Salute.' Aviation specialists note that this protocol serves as a high symbol of respect and celebration, applied exclusively for exceptional achievements.
By custom, airport fire trucks surround the aircraft, synchronously spraying water over its body during its slow movement toward the terminal. Although this ritual is often used to welcome a new airline or the first arrival of a specific aircraft model, it carries deep emotional and honorary meaning. Traditionally, it is used to bid farewell to delegations departing for major sporting or national events, as well as to honor veteran pilots completing their flights.
Furthermore, this protocol is used to commemorate the launch or retirement of a specific air route or aircraft type, and also to render similar maritime honors to ships and their crews. The prestige of this tradition is global. For example, US President Donald Trump received a similar majestic water salute at LaGuardia Airport in New York during his first flight after winning the 2016 presidential election.
