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The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced Monday the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with U.S.-based Archer Aviation, a leading company in vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, to operate air taxi services across the Kingdom.  The agreement was made during the CoMotion Global Summit 2025, held at Riyadh's King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).  The MoU is part of the GACA's ongoing efforts to develop the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) system. It represents a significant step in the Kingdom’s broader program to advance next-generation air mobility solutions and transform Saudi cities into global hubs for future mobility.  Under the MoU, GACA and Archer will cooperate to enhance and develop the current regulatory framework governing VTOL aircraft operations in the Kingdom. This includes maintaining alignment with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification standards to ensure operational safety and supporting the gradual rollout of air taxi services.  Additionally, GACA and Archer will conduct a series of test flights and proof-of-concept operations to validate the regulatory approach, support infrastructure development, and enhance public readiness for adopting the service.

On International Civil Aviation Day, observed globally on December 7 each year, the occasion reinforces safety and security standards in the aviation sector while encouraging member states to support its sustainable growth and technological advancement. Established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the day highlights the importance of air transport as one of the safest modes of travel worldwide, and its vital role in supporting the global economy and developing transport infrastructure. This year emphasizes the crucial role of air transport in driving global economic growth and advancing technological and environmental solutions. In this context, the Kingdom goes beyond celebration, leading an unprecedented strategic transformation that translates its vision into distinctive projects, positioning it as a global logistics hub and the future gateway of aviation. From a standpoint of global leadership, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has launched the Aviation Program, derived from the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, as a fundamental pillar aimed at redefining the air transport map regionally and internationally. Key elements of this transformation include achieving the program’s targets of reaching 330 million passengers annually and connecting to more than 250 international destinations. This strengthens the Kingdom’s role as a central hub for global trade and tourism, while advancing the implementation of major airport development and expansion projects—foremost among them King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, one of the largest airports in the world, designed to be a modern and sustainable gateway. Additionally, the launch of the new national carrier Riyadh Air will represent a qualitative addition to the air transport market and play a pivotal role in realizing ambitious objectives. These achievements are complemented by GACA’s commitment to integrating innovation and digital transformation to ensure the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the aviation sector. This includes adopting advanced technologies in airports, such as smart gates and automated baggage handling, to enhance passenger experience, while keeping pace with global developments in artificial intelligence and advanced air mobility, including vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft in the Kingdom. All of this supports the global theme “Innovation for Sustainable Aviation” and contributes to achieving the targets of the Saudi Civil Aviation Environmental Sustainability Program. These accomplishments reaffirm the Kingdom’s determined efforts to strengthen its infrastructure and develop systems and regulations in cooperation with ICAO, positioning it among the first countries to adopt next-generation air transport solutions and actively contribute to stimulating global economic growth.  

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced that it has granted an economic license to Russia’s Azimuth Airlines to begin operating scheduled passenger flights between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation. The flights will operate from Makhachkala and Mineralnye Vody to Jeddah with three weekly services starting on December 4 and 15 of this year, and from Sochi to Riyadh with two weekly services starting on March 3, 2026.  This step comes as part of GACA's ongoing efforts to strengthen air connectivity and link the Kingdom with the world, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to make the Kingdom a global logistics hub and open new avenues for travel, in accordance with the aviation program under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, affirmed that the decision by the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to establish the “Gulf Civil Aviation Authority”—announced during the 46th GCC Supreme Council session chaired by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince in the Kingdom of Bahrain—represents a strategic milestone that reflects the Council’s commitment to unifying efforts and advancing the Gulf civil aviation system. His Excellency explained that the creation of the Authority aims to drive legislative harmonization and unify the Gulf position in international forums related to civil aviation. This step is designed to keep pace with global developments, strengthen aviation safety and security, and enhance sustainability and competitiveness across the region’s aviation sector. Al-Duailej noted that the establishment of the Authority is an extension of the GCC’s cooperative path in this vital sector. It marks a new phase of joint action and underscores the growing Gulf orientation toward building an integrated civil aviation model—ultimately leading to a unified air system that meets the needs of safe, reliable, and sustainable air transport. He further highlighted that the new Authority seeks to achieve core objectives, foremost among them regulatory and supervisory harmonization to unify policies and systems, and to align national legislation within a unified Gulf framework. It also aims to improve service quality and passenger rights by streamlining travel procedures and coordinating efforts related to passenger protection. In addition, the Authority will support infrastructure development, encourage investment in airports and navigation systems, and leverage Gulf expertise while advancing training and qualification programs for national cadres—thereby strengthening the GCC’s competitiveness on the global stage. The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation emphasized that the establishment of the Gulf Civil Aviation Authority will reinforce the integration of efforts among GCC states in the field of civil aviation, contributing to the achievement of shared goals and consolidating the region’s position “as a global hub in the aviation industry. It is noteworthy that the decision to establish the Authority was based on the recommendation of the 21st Executive Committee meeting for GCC civil aviation, hosted by the State of Kuwait on November 27, with the participation of all member states.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced that it has granted FlexJet, a company specialising in private aircraft operations, a Foreign Operator Certificate, making it the second foreign private aviation company authorised to operate domestic flights within the Kingdom. GACA's Executive Vice President for Economic Policies and Logistics Awad Al-Sulami presented the certificate to FlexJet's chief operating officer Ben Watts during a ceremony at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The certificate was issued in accordance with GACA's decision to permit foreign private aircraft operators to conduct on-demand flights within the Kingdom, effective May 1, 2025, after the company had fulfilled all the requirements and standards outlined in the executive regulations of the Civil Aviation Law. Issuing the Air Operator Certificate is a key pillar in advancing the aviation program under the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics, which aims to position the Kingdom's aviation sector as the leading sector in the Middle East by 2030 and to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub connecting three continents. Private aviation plays a vital role in supporting business activity and tourism both within the Kingdom and from abroad.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation held today in Riyadh a workshop entitled “Guidelines for Designing Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Aircraft Vertiports.” This initiative comes as part of the Authority’s efforts to foster innovation in the aviation sector and to enable partners to gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest regulatory and technical concepts in advanced air mobility. The workshop brought together more than 50 government and private entities, reflecting the Authority’s commitment to collaborative work and unifying efforts to develop the future infrastructure of this promising sector. Its aim was to present the technical and operational requirements for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft vertiports, exchange expertise between the Authority and relevant stakeholders, and coordinate efforts to ensure the highest levels of safety and efficiency in the design and operation of future takeoff and landing sites. The workshop also sought to broaden knowledge of international systems and standards, providing a professional platform that contributes to building a unified understanding of regulatory requirements. Sessions covered several key topics, including raising technical awareness of vertiport specifications and standards as outlined in the guideline, supporting the Kingdom’s readiness to adopt and activate advanced air mobility solutions, strengthening partnerships and integration between government and private sectors, and aligning technical concepts among participants to ensure consistency in applying regulatory requirements. The workshop also highlighted the Authority’s pioneering role in developing future aviation regulations. The General Authority of Civil Aviation affirms, within the objectives of the “Aviation Program” and in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, its dedication to building strategic partnerships that enhance a regulatory environment conducive to innovation, while supporting safe, efficient, and sustainable modes of transport. The Authority continues to work with leading international organizations and manufacturers to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures the safe operation of vertical takeoff and landing aircraft and advanced air mobility applications, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in the future of aviation.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation announced that several Airbus A320 aircraft registered in the Kingdom are subject to a precautionary airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The directive includes updating the operating software of one of the aircraft’s control system computers in the coming days. The Authority explained that this directive was issued by the civil aviation authority of the state of design and applies to several A320 aircraft registered in the Kingdom and operated by some national airlines, in accordance with aviation safety regulations. It emphasised that this step reflects a commitment to applying the highest standards of air safety, noting that safety remains a top priority within the Kingdom’s civil aviation system. The Authority added: “We confirm that we are closely monitoring technical developments related to this type of aircraft with relevant international bodies, and we continue to work with national airlines to ensure compliance with the highest standards of safety and operational quality.” The Authority urged passengers to follow official airline channels to check the latest updates and the status of their flights before heading to the airport. It also emphasised the importance of airlines providing suitable support services to passengers in such cases, in accordance with the Passenger Rights Protection Regulation. The Authority concluded by reaffirming its ongoing coordination with international bodies and operational planning with airlines and all relevant parties, noting that any updates will be announced immediately.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is participating as a strategic sponsor in the General Aviation Airshow 2025 to highlight its vital role in empowering the general and recreational aviation sectors and supporting the Kingdom's aviation ecosystem. GACA's presence underscores its initiatives and programs aligned with the national aviation strategy, particularly its commitment to developing a regulatory environment that fosters general aviation growth, enhances service efficiency, and improves the experience for practitioners and stakeholders. During the exhibition, GACA showcases the latest developments in advanced air mobility and general aviation, organizes workshops to disseminate knowledge about recreational and sport aviation best practices, and highlights different types of pilot licenses and their requirements to support the qualification and professional development of national talent in the sector.

The Kingdom, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), participated today with a delegation headed by His Excellency the President of GACA and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, in the 21st meeting of the Executive Committee for Civil Aviation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The meeting is hosted by the State of Kuwait, represented by the Kuwaiti Directorate General of Civil Aviation, in cooperation with the GCC Secretariat, with the participation of all member states. In his address during the meeting, His Excellency expressed his gratitude to the State of Kuwait for its generous hospitality, warm welcome, and excellent organization. He explained that the meeting aims to unify the existing cooperation among GCC countries regarding civil aviation matters, which contributes to supporting the civil aviation industry in the region and consolidating efforts. He stated that the Kingdom firmly believes the integration of efforts among GCC countries will contribute to achieving shared objectives and reinforcing the region’s position as a leading global hub in the aviation industry. This, he noted, aligns with national development visions and plans and reflects aspirations for a more sustainable and innovative future. He added that committees and working groups under the Council’s umbrella have already achieved significant progress in areas such as regulation, legislation, and facilitating air transport. These efforts, he emphasized, have helped unify approaches, exchange expertise, and support the interests of member states in this vital sector. His Excellency also praised the important role played by the GCC Secretariat in coordinating efforts and unifying positions within regional and international organizations. He expressed hope for continued constructive cooperation to achieve further accomplishments that serve the citizens and economies of GCC countries. In conclusion, His Excellency extended his thanks and appreciation to the GCC Secretariat for its ongoing efforts and support, and to the esteemed members of the Executive Committee for their fruitful work and constructive cooperation. He wished that the meeting would result in recommendations that strengthen the path of joint Gulf cooperation in the field of civil aviation.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) hosted today, at its headquarters in Riyadh, the second edition of the workshop aimed at improving the quality of security procedures at airports across the Kingdom. This initiative comes as part of GACA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security integration with the Presidency of State Security and elevate security standards at Saudi airports. The workshop seeks to foster collaboration through the exchange of information, expertise, and training in aviation security. It also aims to review future plans related to airports and aviation security in the Kingdom, in addition to developing security screening procedures to align with the growing air traffic. The event brought together specialists from GACA, the Presidency of State Security, and other relevant entities in the fields of security and airport operations. Key challenges were highlighted, and discussions focused on ways to enhance security systems and processes, as well as exploring mechanisms to sustain excellence in security procedures through the adoption of advanced technologies and specialized training programs. Several working papers were presented during the workshop, covering topics such as: General Aviation, Airport Control and Monitoring Centers, Security Testing at Saudi Airports, and Risk and Threat Management in Aviation Security. As part of the workshop activities, participants visited the Air Cargo Security Monitoring Center, a unified platform that brings together stakeholders concerned with air cargo security. They were introduced to the center’s remote inspection system, which enables 24/7 centralized monitoring and oversees the security of air cargo supply chains through 40 accredited agencies distributed across four main regions in the Kingdom, all connected to air gateways. The center also employs advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced risk analysis to track shipments from agency handover to airport arrival, thereby enhancing the security of logistics operations. Additionally, participants toured the Civil Aviation Museum, exploring its exhibits and halls that showcase the history and milestones of Saudi civil aviation. This workshop is part of a series of initiatives launched by GACA to boost sector readiness, enhance operational efficiency, and create a safe and advanced travel environment that keeps pace with the rapid growth of air transport within and beyond the Kingdom.  

His Excellency the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, met today with the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom, Matar bin Salem Al Dhaheri, at the Authority's main headquarters in Riyadh. At the start of the meeting, His Excellency offered his congratulations to His Excellency Ambassador Al Dhaheri on the occasion of assuming his post as Ambassador of his country, wishing him success in his new duties. During the meeting, topics of common interest were reviewed, and ways to develop complementary partnerships between the two brotherly countries in the field of civil aviation were discussed.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today released its ranking index for air transport and airport service providers, based on the 1,620 passenger complaints filed with the authority during October 2025. flynas topped the ranking for having the fewest complaints, with a rate of 21 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% on-time complaint resolution rate for October. flyadeal followed in second place with 30 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 99% timely resolution rate. Saudia Airlines ranked third, recording 35 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 72% on-time resolution rate. The most frequently reported complaint categories for the month concerned flights, followed by baggage services, and then tickets. GACA also ranked airports based on complaints received across three categories. Among international airports handling over six million passengers annually, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah performed best, recording the fewest complaints with 19 per 100,000 passengers and achieving a 100% timely resolution rate. Among international airports handling fewer than six million passengers annually, Taif International Airport had the fewest complaints, with one complaint per 100,000 passengers and a 100% timely resolution rate. For domestic airports, Bisha Airport ranked best, recording the fewest complaints with one per 100,000 passengers and also achieving a 100% timely resolution rate.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), concluded its participation in the International Civil Aviation Organization Air Services Negotiation Event (ICAN 2025), held from November 10 to 14 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The Kingdom signed 17 agreements aimed at strengthening its international partnerships in civil aviation. During the conference, GACA finalized bilateral air transport services agreements with the governments of Cape Verde, Paraguay, and Costa Rica. It also signed operational memoranda of understanding in air transport services with Panama, Liberia, Italy, and Luxembourg. These agreements are designed to expand cooperation in air transport and establish clear regulatory frameworks for air traffic between Saudi Arabia and partner countries. They also aim to promote bilateral collaboration based on mutual benefit and respect. The agreements support the objectives of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program and the Aviation Program, which work to enhance Saudi Arabia’s connectivity, open new markets, and empower national carriers to expand their global networks. In addition, Saudi Arabia held 26 rounds of bilateral meetings with several countries, including the Netherlands, Ethiopia, Iceland, Equatorial Guinea, Saint Martin, Honduras, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Trinidad and Tobago, Guinea-Bissau, Namibia, and Curaçao. These discussions resulted in 21 agreements, memoranda of understanding, and records of discussion to deepen international cooperation in air transport services. Saudi Arabia’s extensive engagement at ICAN 2025 reflects its commitment to building global partnerships, advancing international civil aviation collaboration, and reinforcing its position as a leading logistics hub connecting the three continents. This ambition aligns with the goals of Vision 2030.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) participated in a panel discussion titled “Inclusive Tourism for Persons with Disabilities in the Kingdom”, held as part of the High-Level Conference on “Accessible Tourism for Persons with Disabilities.” The event is organized by the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the League of Arab States, from 12–13 November 2025 in Riyadh, with the participation of leading experts and decision-makers in tourism, transport, and inclusive services. During the session, GACA’s Executive Vice President for Quality and Customer Experience, Eng. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Dahmash, explained that the Authority has adopted an integrated regulatory framework based on the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its executive regulations. This framework aims to enhance the travel experience of passengers with disabilities by providing inclusive services and facilities that support their independence and dignity, while obligating all air service providers to comply with relevant regulations and circulars. He noted that GACA has aligned this regulatory framework with the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities to ensure unified standards and full coordination among all concerned entities—contributing to a more inclusive, accessible, and seamless travel experience for all segments of society. Eng. Al-Dahmash added that GACA operates under a system of regulations and national programs dedicated to strengthening the rights of persons with disabilities in air transport. These include the Passenger Rights Protection Regulation, the National Program for Air Transport Facilitation, the National Aviation Security Program, and the executive regulations governing aviation safety. He also highlighted that GACA applies a comprehensive airport service quality assessment program, which includes specific criteria for measuring and improving the experience of travelers with disabilities. Under this program, the best-performing airport in serving this group is honored each year, encouraging healthy competition and elevating overall service quality. He further explained that GACA provides travelers with six diverse, round-the-clock communication channels for submitting complaints and inquiries, including the visual sign-language call service launched to support the needs of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing—enhancing communication accessibility and promoting an inclusive travel environment. The Executive Vice President for Quality and Customer Experience affirmed that GACA continues, through its regulatory and supervisory role, to monitor the commitment of airports across the Kingdom to the standards of universal accessibility. These efforts are guided by the simplified manual issued by the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities, which outlines precise technical specifications to ensure that airport facilities are fully prepared to accommodate all passengers and provide a safe, accessible travel experience that meets diverse needs.

In the presence of Deputy Governor of Makkah Region and Deputy Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Hajj and Umrah Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) yesterday honored the winning airlines of the “Multazim” Award for their excellence during the 1446 AH Hajj season, as part of its participation in the Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025 in Jeddah. GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej presented the awards to the national carriers Saudia, flynas, and flyadeal, as well as to several international airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and Air China. GACA had earlier launched two initiatives, “Distinguished Path” and the “Multazim” Award, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency among airlines, encouraging them to elevate their service standards for the upcoming Hajj season, and motivating Hajj offices to make early preparations for pilgrims’ air transport. The authority affirmed that these initiatives reflect its commitment to developing the air transport ecosystem in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and to reinforcing the Kingdom’s leading role in serving pilgrims from across the world.