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President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej held a meeting in Riyadh with Henan Province Vice Governor Sun Shougang of China to enhance investments between the two countries.  The two sides addressed economic ties between Saudi Arabia and China and ways to develop quality investments for pioneering companies, while enabling the private sector to capitalize on available opportunities. Discussions also covered developing Saudi-Chinese air transportation, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030 and the Saudi Aviation Strategy.  At the meeting, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Saudia Cargo and China Henan Aviation Group, focusing on strategic cooperation within the air-cargo center project between Saudi Arabia and China via the Air Silk Road. The MoU also promotes collaboration in sustainability, cross-border e-commerce, and digital shipping operations through innovations in logistics and shipping services.  Moreover, GACA held a Saudi-Chinese roundtable to explore cooperation opportunities in logistics zones and air-cargo areas, in the presence of Chairman of the Board of Directors of China Henan Aviation Group Zhang Mingchao, as well as representatives from national carriers and logistics companies. Several government entities were represented, including the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Investment, and the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services; the Saudi General Authority of Foreign Trade; the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority; the Industrial Center; and the Air Connectivity Program.  The meeting discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the civil aviation sector and efforts to strengthen economic and investment links between Saudi Arabia and China. It explored enhancing quality investments and empowering the private sector to leverage investment opportunities in the logistics sector, while benefiting from Chinese expertise in air cargo and logistics zones.  Additionally, the Chinese delegation conducted a field visit to the Special Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh and the cargo zones at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. They observed operational capabilities, cargo-handling facilities and zones, e-commerce shipments, and the digital capabilities and mechanisms in use. The delegation also visited King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, where they reviewed the services provided at its Airport Operations Control Center (AOCC), commercial areas, and duty-free store.

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej extended his highest congratulations and blessings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the release of the 2024 Annual Report for Saudi Vision 2030. H.E. the President of GACA praised the remarkable progress achieved by Saudi Vision 2030 over the past nine years and the realization of 93% of its targets. He affirmed that this advancement reflects the Vision’s depth and scope, and embodies the Saudi Arabia’s broad development across various sectors. H.E. noted that the civil aviation sector has witnessed significant transformations in the course of Vision 2030, thanks to the unwavering support of the wise leadership, enabling the Kingdom to firmly establish itself as a global aviation hub with a competitive regional and international position.  The President further stated that overall achievement of the Vision’s indicators and initiatives has reached 100%, with Saudi Arabia now ranking 17th globally in the Air Connectivity Index as per the International Air Transport Association (IATA), surpassing the 2024 target by two ranks. H.E. noted that the year 2024 marked a pivotal milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey of achievement, with the number of passengers traveling through Saudi airports exceeding 128 million, the number of flights surpassing 905,000, and air cargo volumes exceeding 1.2 million tons. Additionally, Saudi airports and national carriers secured leading positions across multiple international indicators and rankings. Regarding localization efforts, H.E. explained that the "Localization of Aviation Jobs" initiative also demonstrated an outstanding performance in 2024, with the employment of 14,317 Saudi men and women—representing 124% of the total target of 11,500 jobs by the end of 2025. The focus remained on specialized, qualitative, and leadership positions across airports, airlines, and ground services. He also highlighted the sector’s notable progress in female empowerment, with the representation of women in leadership positions rising to 17%. The President highlighted GACA’s launching of a trial air taxi service during the 1445 AH Hajj season, granting of licenses for various innovative aviation technologies, opening of new passenger terminals, and expansion of several regional airports, all in line with Saudi Arabia's adoption of future-oriented solutions and promotion of sustainability in the aviation sector. H.E. noted that the Kingdom’s civil aviation sector has witnessed substantial progress since the inauguration of the National Aviation Strategy. This includes the privatization of airports and their transfer to the Airports Holding Company; the unveiling of master plans for King Salman International Airport and the new Abha International Airport; the initiation of the Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh (the Kingdom’s first special integrated logistics zone); the second phase of the expansion project at Medinah’s Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport; the opening of Terminal 1 at both Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and Taif International Airport; and the expansion and development of terminals at Qassim International Airport, Al-Ahsa International Airport, NEOM Bay Airport, Red Sea International Airport, Arar International Airport, and Al Qaisumah International Airport. Other recent developments include the launching of Riyadh Air and the signing of purchase agreements for 548 aircraft to date. In conclusion, His Excellency the President prayed to Almighty Allah to protect the Kingdom’s wise leadership and to bless the nation with continued security and prosperity. He reaffirmed GACA’s determination to fulfill the aspirations of the leadership and to contribute to building a bright future for Saudi Arabia in the skies of the world.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today issued the classification index for air transport service providers and airports, based on the number of complaints submitted by travelers to the authority during March 2025. GACA clarified that the number of passenger complaints regarding airlines totaled 965. It noted that flynas had the fewest complaints, with 19 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a and a complaint resolution rate of 100% within the specified timeframe for March. Following in second place was Saudia, with 19 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 99% resolution rate within the timeframe. flyadeal came in third with 30 complaints per 100,000 passengers, and a 100% resolution rate within the specified timeframe. The most frequently reported issues in March were related to baggage services, followed by ticketing and boarding services. The authority also highlighted that King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh had the fewest complaints in the index for international airports handling more than 6 million passengers annually, with 1% per 100,000 passengers, equating to 16 complaints and a 100% resolution rate. Moreover, Taif International Airport recorded the fewest complaints in the index for international airports with fewer than 6 million annual passengers, with 1% per 100,000 passengers, equivalent to one complaint, and a 100% resolution rate. In the domestic airports index, Arar Airport reported the lowest complaint rate as well, with 3% per 100,000 passengers, amounting to one complaint, and a 100% resolution rate. GACA emphasized that the publication of the monthly report on the classification of air transport service providers and airports (based on complaints submitted to the authority) aims to provide travelers with information on the performance of service providers and airports in addressing customer complaints. This enables travelers to choose the most suitable service provider while also enhancing transparency, demonstrating the authority’s commitment to handling passenger complaints, and fostering fair competition among service providers to improve services. To support its airport partners, GACA has prepared a booklet containing guidelines on how to handle passenger complaints at airports. The booklet was distributed to airport operators and includes regulations and service level agreements to be adhered to for all types of complaints and inquiries. Additionally, training workshops have been organized for employees of national airlines and ground services companies, who have direct contact with passengers, to ensure compliance with the Executive Regulations for the Protection of Customer Rights. It is worth noting that GACA has provided multiple communication channels around the clock to ensure interaction with travelers and airport visitors through the following contact channels: the Unified Call Center (1929), WhatsApp service at 0115253333, social media accounts, email, and the official website. These channels receive complaints related to boarding passes, employee behavior, services for people with disabilities, limited mobility, and other issues.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) held its 16th Steering Committee Meeting for Activating the National Strategy for the Aviation Sector today in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The meeting was chaired by H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), with the attendance of H.E. Ahmed Al-Hassan, the Assistant Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, along with Vice Presidents, CEOs, officials, and managers representing companies and national carriers operating in the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia. In his address, H.E. the President of GACA highlighted the sustained growth of Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector. Passenger numbers reached 34.9 million during the first quarter of 2025, marking an 8.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The sector also demonstrated operational excellence during the Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr seasons, with airports across the Kingdom handling more than 6.8 million domestic and international passengers. This performance reflects the strong coordination between government and private entities, contributing to the sector’s continued momentum following the record-breaking achievements of 2024. H.E. the President of GACA emphasized the importance of early preparations for the Hajj season, highlighting the need to intensify efforts, provide comprehensive facilities, and mobilize human and technical resources to serve the guests of Allah and to ensure their comfort, safety and peace of mind. H.E. also affirmed the valuable support provided by the wise leadership in harnessing all efforts, capabilities, and resources to serve pilgrims and facilitate the performance of their rituals with ease and reassurance. The meeting also reviewed major achievements in the aviation sector, including the securing by four major airports in Saudi Arabia of advanced rankings in the Skytrax 2025 Awards, across various categories. Additionally, 22 airports operated by the Cluster2 company obtained Airport Carbon Accreditation, ranking the Kingdom first in the Middle East and second in Asia in terms of the number of accredited airports. Furthermore, the Saudi Group topped global airline rankings for on-time performance for March, according to the latest Cirium Aviation Analytics report. Riyadh Air received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), paving the way for the launch later this year of its scheduled flights to and from Saudi Arabia's airports. The first batch of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) also arrived at Red Sea International Airport, enabling Fly Red Sea to operate flights with low carbon emissions. Additionally, Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport saw the inauguration in March of its electronic gates service. Moreover, GACA launched its new integrated digital platform “Ajwaa”, while unveiling its new corporate identity and launching a redesigned official website. These moves reflected the dynamic transformation of the Kingdom’s aviation sector and its vital role in supporting national economic growth, while contributing to the Saudi Vision 2030 goals. GACA also announced the launch of a tender this month for the operation of on-demand private aircraft flights. Other topics discussed at the meeting included updates regarding the activation of the National Aviation Sector Strategy, progress made on the recommendations of the 15th Steering Committee meeting, the achievements of national companies and carriers operating in Saudi Arabia's airports, and their alignment with the overall aviation strategy. As part of the committee’s 16th meeting, GACA awarded the economic license to Swissport for ground handling services. This step aims to enhance service levels for passengers and is part of Swissport’s expansion plan, which now includes operations at Taif International Airport, Abha International Airport, Hail International Airport, Al Jawf Airport, Prince Abdul Mohsin bin Abdulaziz Airport, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport, and King Abdullah International Airport. It is worth noting that the National Strategy for the Aviation Sector aims to double the sector’s capacity to more than 330 million passengers annually from over 250 global destinations. It also seeks to increase cargo capacity to 4.5 million tons of goods by 2030.  

The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, today inaugurated the Mobile Cybersecurity Awareness Exhibition at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The exhibition is organized by GACA in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), and was attended by the Governor of the NCA, Eng. Majid bin Mohammed Al-Mazyed, along with several officials and members of the civil aviation sector. The two-day exhibition aims to strengthen the values of national security, raise awareness of cybersecurity, and promote a strong cybersecurity culture among members of the civil aviation ecosystem. It also seeks to help mitigate evolving cyber risks and foster greater collaboration between national entities in the field of cybersecurity. The exhibition features four interactive zones designed to enrich the experience of participants. These zones highlight key cybersecurity concepts and their national importance, shed light on behaviors that help prevent cyber threats, and utilize engaging tools such as live simulations of cyberattacks targeting individuals and organizations. In addition, the exhibition offers expert advice and practical cybersecurity guidance focused on best practices in the workplace to help reduce exposure to cyber threats. The Mobile Cybersecurity Awareness Exhibition is part of a broader national awareness initiative led by the National Cybersecurity Authority. It reflects a collaborative approach among government entities to boost cybersecurity awareness, instill a culture of safeguarding national security, and support efforts aimed at enhancing cybersecurity across the Kingdom.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today launched its monthly report tracking airport and national carrier flight punctuality for March 2025, measuring arrivals and departures within a 15-minute window of scheduled times. The report offers passengers transparent insights into airline and airport scheduling compliance, with the aim of improving service quality, raising standards, and enhancing the overall passenger experience. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Abha International Airport, AlUla International Airport, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Al Baha, Dawadmi Airport, and Turaif Airport, all achieved leading positions. The report divides airports into five categories, with King Khalid International Airport topping the first—international airports serving over 15 million passengers annually—achieving a 93% compliance rate. In the second category—international airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers annually—King Fahd International Airport in Dammam ranked first with a 93% compliance rate. In the third category—international airports serving 2 to 5 million passengers annually—Abha International Airport ranked first with a 95% compliance rate. In the fourth category—international airports serving fewer than two million passengers annually—AlUla International Airport ranked first with a 97% compliance rate. In the fifth category—domestic airports—King Saud Bin Abdulaziz Airport, Dawadmi Airport, and Turaif Airport each recorded a 100% compliance rate. Among national carriers, Saudia led with a 95% on-time arrival rate and 94% for departures. Flynas followed with 91% for arrivals and 91% for departures, and flyadeal achieved 91% for arrivals and 94% for departures. The report also highlights top-performing routes, with the Riyadh–Abha domestic flight achieving 98% compliance, while the Riyadh–Amman route ranked first among international flights with a 99% compliance rate. These GACA initiatives support Saudi Arabia’s National Aviation Strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a leading regional aviation hub by enhancing operational standards, efficiency, and passenger services.