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President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz Al-Duailej visited Singapore’s largest airport Changi Airport yesterday as part of the High-Level Aviation Week, organized by the Ministry of Transport of Singapore from July 13 to 18. He toured the airport’s facilities and terminals and was briefed on the capacity of its service infrastructure, operational procedures, and passenger services. The visit included talks on strengthening collaboration in key areas such as air traffic management, infrastructure development, and achieving the highest standards of safety and security in civil aviation. The visit is part of broader efforts to boost cooperation in the aviation sector, promote the localization of aviation-related industries, explore opportunities to leverage advanced technologies, and attract investments.

 Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) board Chairman Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser yesterday signed an air transport services agreement between the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the government of the Republic of Kiribati. The agreement was signed on behalf of Kiribati by Minister for Information, Communications and Transport Alexander Teabo, in the presence of GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej. The signing happened on the sidelines of High-Level Aviation Week, organized by the Ministry of Transport in Singapore from July 13 to 18. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation between the two sides in the field of air transport services and foster bilateral collaboration based on mutual benefit and respect, according to the applicable laws, regulations, and directives in both countries. It also seeks to establish regulatory frameworks for air transport between the two nations. The agreement contributes to advancing the civil aviation sector's strategy to build international partnerships and strengthen global relations in the field of civil aviation, thereby enabling national carriers to expand their operational networks.  

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), today signed an air transport services agreement with the Republic of Serbia, represented by its Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, to enhance cooperation in air transport, promoting a mutually beneficial relationship based on respect and compliance with the laws and regulations of both countries.  The new agreement establishes a regulatory framework for air transport between Saudi Arabia and Serbia, aligning with the Kingdom’s civil aviation sector strategy, which focuses on building international partnerships and strengthening global relations in the aviation sector, ultimately enabling national carriers to expand their operational networks.  In a separate development, GACA also concluded a productive round of discussions with its counterpart in the Republic of Indonesia, aimed at updating the operational framework between the two countries to align with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious national aviation strategy.  The discussions culminated in the signing of a record of discussions, outlining the updated operational framework between the Kingdom and Indonesia, which is expected to significantly enhance the passenger experience for travelers between the two nations.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued today its classification index for air transport service providers and airports based on the number of complaints submitted by passengers to the authority during May 2025.  GACA reported that the total number of passenger complaints against airlines reached 1,342. Flynas recorded the fewest complaints, with 35 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% on-time complaint resolution rate. Saudia ranked second with 39 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% resolution rate, while Flyadeal came in third with 40 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a similarly high 100% resolution rate. The most common complaint categories in May were baggage-related, followed by flight-related issues and ticketing concerns.  Among international airports handling more than 6 million passengers annually, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh had the lowest complaint rate, at 0.4 complaints per 100,000 passengers, with a total of 16 complaints and a 100% on-time resolution rate.  For international airports with fewer than 6 million passengers annually, Prince Naif International Airport recorded the fewest complaints, with only one complaint, equivalent to 1% per 100,000 passengers, and a 100% resolution rate. As for domestic airports, King Saud Airport had the lowest number of complaints, also recording one complaint, equal to 3% per 100,000 passengers, with a 100% resolution rate.  GACA noted that issuing the monthly classification report aims to inform passengers about the performance of air transport service providers and airports in handling customer complaints, helping travelers choose the appropriate service provider. It also enhances transparency, demonstrates the authority’s commitment to passenger concerns, and promotes fair competition among providers to improve service quality.  In support of its partner airports, GACA has prepared a booklet with instructions on how to handle passenger complaints at airports. The booklet, distributed to airport operators, outlines regulations and service-level agreements applicable to all types of complaints and inquiries. Workshops have also been held to train staff from national airlines and ground service companies, particularly those who interact directly with passengers, on complying with the executive regulations for protecting customer rights.  GACA provides multiple communication channels, available around the clock, to ensure ongoing engagement with passengers and airport visitors. These include the unified call center number 1929, WhatsApp service via 0115253333, social media accounts, email, and the official website. Complaints may cover issues such as boarding pass issuance, staff conduct, and services for persons with disabilities and limited mobility.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), in collaboration with the Digital Saudi Program, today launched ‘AVITHON’, Saudi's first-ever national hackathon in civil aviation—designed to spur digital innovation and develop creative solutions that elevate the passenger experience and enhance overall sector efficiency. AVITHON is in line with GACA’s efforts to advance the Saudi Aviation Strategy and support the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a premier aviation hub for the region and for the world. AVITHON features three core tracks—enhancing the passenger experience, sustainability, and safety and security in civil aviation—and invites students, technicians, entrepreneurs, and all aviation enthusiasts to develop practical, innovative digital solutions for real-world implementation. Eng. Saud Marshoud Alharbi, General Manager of Technology and Digital Transformation at GACA stated that the AVITHON is a flagship initiative aligned with Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision to foster innovation, empower creators, and accelerate the pace of digital transformation in the aviation sector. He added that GACA is committed to providing participants with both technical and logistical support, along with cash prizes totaling SAR 450,000. The first edition of AVITHON will be online, and interested participants can register through the official portal at [https://avithon.gaca.gov.sa] until 17 July 2025. GACA welcomes all aviation enthusiasts to join this national challenge and play a part in shaping the future of civil aviation in Saudi Arabia.

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, met today at GACA’s Riyadh headquarters with H.E. Emrullah İşler, Ambassador of Turkey to Saudi Arabia, and Mr. Mehmet Akalin, General Manager of Turkish Airlines. The two sides discussed topics of mutual interest and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the civil aviation sector.  

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) signed today a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Sport to cooperate in the organization, coordination, and supervision of air sports activities within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  The MoU reflects a shared commitment to develop this promising sector within a structured framework that meets safety requirements and adheres to international standards. The signing ceremony took place at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh in the presence of H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA. The MoU was signed by Captain Sulaiman Almuhaimedi, Executive Vice President for Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability at GACA, and by AAbdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Masaad, Deputy Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs at the Ministry of Sport. The MoU outlines mechanisms to regulate air sports activities as per approved standards and regulations. It aims to enhance safety for practitioners, define the roles and responsibilities of GACA and the Ministry of Sport in relation to permits, supervision, and oversight, and support the development of the air sports sector in the wider context of the sports, tourism, and entertainment sectors. It also calls for the implementation of air-safety regulations in line with GACA’s standards; advance coordination between the Ministry and GACA when organizing air sports events or tournaments; and develop awareness and educational programs for practitioners on safety requirements and regulatory procedures. GACA remains committed to advancing air sports activities across the Kingdom within an organized framework that meets international safety benchmarks. The Authority is keen to provide an attractive investment environment and extend all possible support to the civil aviation sector, enabling it to achieve its strategic targets and reinforcing GACA’s role as the official regulator of air transport in Saudi Arabia. This is to be accomplished through strategic partnerships with all relevant entities and enhanced operational efficiency in line with Vision 2030. The MoU underscores the Ministry of Sport’s dedication to advancing the sports sector under the highest standards of governance, expanding the base of practitioners, building a vibrant community, and achieving Saudi Arabia’s regional and global sporting excellence.

His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, signed today an air transport services agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Government of Montenegro. The agreement was signed by Her Excellency Ms. Maja Vukicevic, Minister of Transport of Montenegro, on the sidelines of the Global Forum for the Connectivity of Transport Networks, held in Istanbul, Republic of Türkiye, from June 27 to 29, 2025. The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation in the field of air transport services and to enhance bilateral collaboration based on mutual benefit and respect, in line with the laws and regulations in both countries. It also establishes a regulatory framework to facilitate air traffic between the two nations. This partnership supports the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Civil Aviation Strategy, which seeks to build global partnerships and foster international cooperation in civil aviation, enabling national carriers to expand their operational networks worldwide.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has opened its airspace to ensure the smooth flow of air traffic and flight routes amid the recent escalating tensions in the region, mobilizing all human and material resources and implementing necessary preparations to accommodate the surge in transit flights. More than 1,330 daily flights on average have crossed Saudi airspace, nearly double the pre-crisis levels. The additional flights were managed safely and smoothly through the Kingdom’s skies, backed by advanced technologies and stringent security measures, in full compliance with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). During the period of heightened tensions, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) made efforts to open additional air routes to absorb the increased air traffic. The Kingdom expanded its airspace capacity and reduced flight times using advanced navigational procedures and systems that ensured the safety of Saudi skies and air traffic operations. Saudi airspace has witnessed the passage of more than 220 air carriers during this period, prompting the activation of pre-planned airspace expansion procedures. Stringent airport and airspace security measures were enforced, using advanced air surveillance systems and technical infrastructure. Predefined risk management plans were activated, enabling rapid crisis response and continuity of air navigation with the highest safety standards. Crisis management teams were equipped with advanced technologies to accelerate real-time data analysis and processing, providing operators and stakeholders at local and regional levels with essential information for effective and immediate planning of traffic and flight management. The efforts, combined with preemptive preparations, allowed Saudi Arabia to successfully accommodate the increase in transit flights and reinforce its position as a safe and reliable airspace in the region. The Kingdom’s air navigation system features some of the world’s most advanced monitoring and communication technologies, operating through 20 control towers, two regional area control centers comprising 15 area control sectors, 10 approach control centers, and more than 1,200 navigation devices distributed across the Kingdom. These are supported by over 1,900 specialists, including more than 700 male and female air traffic controllers, working according to the latest advanced methodologies aligned with the Kingdom’s vision to position its aviation sector among the world’s most competitive.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has been awarded the bronze prize in the seventh cycle of the King Abdulaziz Quality Award, under the category of Best Quality Practices in the Government Sector, in recognition of its commitment to the highest quality standards. The award was presented by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region, to Eng. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Aldahmash, Executive Vice President for Quality and Customer Experience, during the official award ceremony held in Riyadh. This achievement reflects GACA’s ongoing commitment to institutional excellence and quality enhancement, as well as the adoption of best practices in service development and performance improvement. The award marks a significant milestone in GACA’s journey toward excellence, underscoring its efforts to embrace top-tier quality standards and contribute to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in strengthening institutional efficiency and improving user experience. It is worth noting that the King Abdulaziz Quality Award is considered the national benchmark for institutional excellence in the Kingdom. It serves as a key driver for promoting a culture of quality and continuous improvement across sectors, encouraging the application of excellence principles to elevate performance and increase beneficiary satisfaction.

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej signed on Monday in the British capital the "One-Stop Security" agreement with the Government of the United Kingdom, represented by Director General for Aviation, Maritime and Security Group in the Department for Transport (DfT) Rannia Leontaridi.  The agreement allows security screening procedures conducted at UK airports to be recognized for passengers traveling to airports in Saudi Arabia and continuing to other destinations worldwide.  The agreement marks a strategic step that reinforces the Kingdom's position as a global aviation hub. It enhances the passenger experience by reducing transit time and eliminating redundant procedures, while maintaining the highest standards of security and safety. It also supports the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030 to strengthen air connectivity and facilitate international travel.  Under the agreement, passenger and baggage screening conducted at UK airports will be recognized upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, eliminating the need for re-screening or baggage unloading. This streamlines connecting flight procedures, reduces passenger wait times, improves traveler satisfaction and airport operational efficiency, and optimizes airline scheduling by minimizing ground time.  The agreement further enhances security and technical cooperation through the exchange of best practices and data on risk management and threat assessment. This initiative is part of GACA's broader efforts to elevate the passenger experience and transform Saudi airports into globally competitive hubs through the adoption of advanced technologies and digital solutions. It reflects both countries' commitment to ensuring the highest standards of aviation security and safety while promoting international travel and trade.  

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today issued its monthly report on the punctuality performance of airports and national carriers for May 2025, based on flights departing or arriving within 15 minutes of their scheduled time, to provide travelers with a clear overview of adherence to flight schedules and to support efforts to enhance service quality and improve the overall passenger experience.  According to the report, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, AlUla International Airport, and Turaif Airport ranked among the top-performing airports in May.  Airports were categorized into five groups. In the first category, which includes international airports with over 15 million passengers annually, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah ranked first with an on-time performance rate of 89%. In the second category, for airports handling 5 to 15 million passengers annually, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam topped the list with 88%.  In the third category, which includes airports handling 2 to 5 million passengers annually, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk ranked first with 91%. AlUla International Airport led the fourth category, for airports with fewer than 2 million passengers, with a 96% on-time performance rate, while Turaif Airport topped the fifth category for domestic airports with a 97% on-time performance rate.  At the airline level, Saudia recorded a 90% on-time rate for both arrivals and departures; flynas achieved 89% for arrivals and 91% for departures; and flyadeal recorded 90% for arrivals and 92% for departures.  The report also highlighted key domestic and international routes. Domestically, the Jizan–Jeddah and Jeddah–Abha routes achieved a punctuality rate of 95%. Internationally, the Jeddah–Abu Dhabi route ranked first with a 97% on-time performance rate.  These efforts align with the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a leading regional aviation hub by enhancing operational standards, improving efficiency, and raising the quality of services provided to travelers.

  The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued on Sunday its monthly performance report for May 2025 on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s international and domestic airports. The report assesses airport performance based on 11 operational standards aligned with strategic objectives aimed at improving services, enhancing quality, and ensuring a seamless traveler experience.  King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Abha International Airport, Arar Airport, and Qurayyat Airport ranked highly in the report. GACA categorizes airports for performance evaluation based on annual passenger volumes, ensuring a transparent approach.  Among international airports with more than 15 million passengers annually, King Khalid International Airport ranked first with an 82% compliance rate, outperforming King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which also recorded 82% but scored lower in key performance criteria.  In the category of international airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers annually, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam ranked first with a 91% compliance rate, while Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah came second with 82%.  Among airports with 2 to 5 million annual passengers, Abha International Airport achieved a 100% compliance rate, leading in metrics related to average waiting time for departing and arriving flights.  In the category of airports with fewer than 2 million annual passengers, Arar Airport also achieved a 100% compliance rate, outperforming peers in average waiting time. Qurayyat Airport ranked first among domestic airports, achieving a 100% compliance rate and leading in efficiency for departing and arriving flight procedures.  GACA evaluates airport performance based on key passenger service areas to ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience aligned with international standards.

 A delegation from the Saudi civil aviation system, led by General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, visited the Airbus Factory in Toulouse, France, one of the world’s largest aircraft manufacturing hubs.  The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation with the French side in areas such as manufacturing, technology transfer, and localization of the aerospace industry. It aligns with the Kingdom’s objectives to become a global industrial and logistics hub in the aviation sector. This came as part of the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, taking place from June 16 to 22.  The delegation toured the factory’s facilities and departments, gaining insight into the integrated production system used in aircraft design and assembly. They also viewed advanced aircraft manufacturing technologies, along with the latest innovations and advancements in the aviation industry. They were briefed on Airbus’s smart production systems, including automation, digitization, and the integration of artificial intelligence and augmented reality into production lines, positioning Airbus as a model of manufacturing efficiency and performance quality.  During the visit, discussions were held on mutual investment opportunities in aircraft design and assembly, as well as the enablers and incentives Saudi Arabia offers to attract high-quality investments in the aviation industry. The delegation explored avenues for enhanced cooperation, including experience exchange in air traffic management, infrastructure development, and achieving the highest standards of air safety and security.  The visit, led by Al-Duailej, represents a strategic message underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to forging industrial partnerships with leading global aviation firms and to staying abreast of cutting-edge smart manufacturing and innovation. It also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transfer technology and localize the aerospace industry, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. The visit further reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to expanding areas of cooperation and investment with France and to solidifying its role as a trusted partner in global aviation supply chains.  The visit falls within the broader context of enhancing collaboration and knowledge exchange in the aviation manufacturing sector, utilizing advanced technologies to elevate safety and efficiency standards in civil aviation, exploring the latest advancements in manufacturing lines, safety, and environmental practices, and identifying opportunities for joint innovation and investment.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and Airbus signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on environmental sustainability during the 2025 Paris Air Show.  As a strategic step toward balancing economic growth with environmental preservation, the MoU aims to strengthen cooperation in sustainability by leveraging innovative technologies to reduce the aviation sector’s environmental impact, in alignment with the objectives of the Civil Aviation Environmental Sustainability Program (CAESP).  The agreement outlines key areas of collaboration, including the exchange of expertise in the use of low-carbon and sustainable aviation fuels, as well as initiatives to develop specialized human capacity in the field.  GACA Executive Vice President for Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability Captain Sulaiman Almuhaimedi underscored that the MoU signing with Airbus marks a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s commitment to building a more sustainable and resilient aviation sector.  "This memorandum is designed to address sustainability challenges, promote knowledge transfer, and empower the next generation of Saudi talent to lead the sector’s environmental transformation in the years ahead,” he stated.  Airbus President in Africa and the Middle East Gabriel Semelas emphasized that the partnership represents a significant step toward building a more sustainable future for the aviation sector, aiming to accelerate efforts to reduce carbon emissions both regionally and globally.