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A high-level delegation from the civil aviation sector, headed by General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej held the Saudi-French Roundtable Meeting on Tuesday in the French capital, Paris. The meeting brought together leading French companies specializing in civil aviation, along with chief executives, the deputy chief executive for aviation safety and environmental sustainability, officials, and experts in aviation, airports, and related services. More than 65 public and private entities from both countries participated. The meeting was held as part of the 55th annual Paris Air Show, taking place from June 16 to 22. It aims to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation, explore investment opportunities, and expand areas of privatization and technology transfer. The meeting highlighted national priorities and projects in the sector, while facilitating the exchange of views on the future of the aviation industry, addressing shared challenges, and aligning efforts to build strategic partnerships that support infrastructure development, foster innovation, and promote sustainability in aviation — reinforcing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's position as a global logistics hub and a key center for air transport. Participants discussed available investment opportunities in the civil aviation industry and the attractive investment environment the Kingdom offers to both local and international investors. They also highlighted national initiatives, privatization prospects, and opportunities in airport infrastructure, air navigation services, and advanced aviation technologies. These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to the sustainable development of the sector and its positive contribution to the global aviation industry, in line with its strategic interests and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz Al-Duailej signed a bilateral air services agreement between the governments of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Panama during Saudi Arabia’s participation at the 55th Paris Air Show, held from June 16 to 19.  The agreement establishes a regulatory framework for safe, efficient, and orderly air transport between the two countries, adhering to the principles of the 1944 Chicago Convention. It demonstrates a mutual commitment to advancing civil aviation by strengthening regulations on air safety, aviation security, and fair competition.  The agreement also supports Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector strategy, which aims to forge global partnerships, expand air connectivity to 250 destinations, and increase passenger transport capacity to 330 million annually by 2030.

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister—may Allah protect them—on the successful conclusion of the Hajj season for the year 1446 AH. His Excellency emphasized that this success reflects the wise leadership’s unwavering care and continuous support in serving the Guests of Allah. These efforts are made possible through far-sighted directives and limitless support to all sectors involved in Hajj operations, ensuring pilgrims perform their rituals with ease and tranquility within a fully integrated service system—from their arrival in the Kingdom until departure. Al-Duailej noted that the civil aviation sector’s arrival-phase operations were executed with high efficiency across 11 terminals in 6 major airports. Over 314,000 pilgrims from 8 countries benefited from the “Makkah Route” initiative, and more than 1.4 million seats were allocated across 10,000+ scheduled and chartered flights by 62 air carriers, including 3,312 dedicated flights at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah. He added that joint operational committees within the aviation system have worked around the clock to ensure smooth airport operations and provide safe, streamlined services. Key initiatives included the “Pilgrim Without Baggage” service, aimed at over 750,000 pilgrims and expected to reach 1 million by the end of the departure phase. Additionally, around 850,000 Zamzam water bottles were handled through the baggage drop-off platforms in departure halls, and over 85,000 pilgrims were linked—via Terminal 1 at King Abdulaziz International Airport—to the Haramain High-Speed Railway in coordination with SAR. He reaffirmed that efforts continue intensively during the departure phase to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience, in line with royal directives and in pursuit of elevating the Hajj experience, in accordance with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the quality of services for pilgrims. He concluded by praying for the continued health and protection of the Kingdom’s leadership, the prosperity of the nation, and the safe return of all pilgrims to their home countries.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), participated with a high-level delegation in the 55th edition of the Paris Air Show “Le Bourget,” held in the French capital Paris from June 16 to 22, 2025. The delegation was headed by His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of GACA’s Board of Directors, and included His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA, as well as several CEOs and experts in aviation, airports, and aviation-related service sectors. The participation aims to explore opportunities for cooperation in enhancing air connectivity, economic growth, and promising investment prospects, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. GACA’s participation is intended to strengthen relationships with major international aviation and aerospace companies, and stakeholders in the air transport industry in general. It also seeks to develop new air routes, promote investment opportunities in the Saudi aviation sector under the National Aviation Strategy, and enhance bilateral relations through meetings between countries involved in the aviation industry. During the visit, His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, accompanied by GACA’s President, Vice Presidents, and CEOs of companies operating within the Saudi civil aviation sector, toured the exhibition. They visited various pavilions to explore the latest technologies, innovations, and aviation solutions presented, including advanced air mobility, aerospace, and environmental sustainability. They also viewed the integrated products offered by specialized companies for the design and assembly of commercial and military aircraft, which are distinguished by their application of the highest standards in automation, digitization, and smart manufacturing concepts. The delegation visited the pavilions of the Saudi aviation ecosystem, including national airlines, companies, and institutions. They listened to presentations from pavilion representatives on the services, technologies, and innovative digital solutions currently being implemented in the sector. They were also briefed on recent developments in maintenance, manufacturing, and aviation training services, as well as on the latest equipment and systems showcased by hundreds of local and international manufacturers. As part of the exhibition activities, and in the presence of His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and His Excellency the President of GACA, the Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus in areas of mutual interest. These included environmental sustainability, airworthiness and flight operations safety, the exchange of technical and technological expertise, and the development of national competencies. Additionally, an agreement was signed between Avilease, an aircraft leasing company, and Airbus for the purchase of 77 advanced aircraft, including A350 freighters and A320 narrow-body aircraft. Another agreement was signed by Riyadh Air to purchase 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, expanding its fleet to 182 aircraft in preparation for connecting Riyadh to 100 global destinations by 2030. Furthermore, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Second Airports Holding Company (Tamaheel Airports) and Airbus to explore training and development opportunities and investment cooperation. During the visit, His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej also met separately with Mr. Damien Cazé, Director General of the French Civil Aviation Authority; Mr. Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer; and His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications. These meetings explored ways to strengthen collaboration in advancing the civil aviation sector. The participation of the Saudi aviation ecosystem in the Paris Air Show aims to highlight the Kingdom’s civil aviation sector as a key engine of national economic growth. It seeks to present the investment opportunities available within the sector, gain insight into the latest global aviation innovations, explore areas of cooperation with leading international manufacturers and institutions, and build strategic partnerships with France and other global partners. These efforts support the Kingdom’s ambition to position itself as a regional and international hub for aviation. It is worth noting that the Paris Air Show “Le Bourget” is one of the world’s most important aviation exhibitions, attracting thousands of participants from the aviation, aerospace, and defense industries worldwide. The exhibition offers companies an opportunity to showcase new products and technologies, demonstrate innovation capabilities, and exchange knowledge and expertise. It also serves as a platform to present the latest developments in aircraft technologies and aviation industry equipment, in response to the rapid growth and rising demand for air travel in the coming years.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), will participate in the Paris Air Show 2025 with a high-level delegation headed by His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of GACA, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser. The delegation also includes His Excellency the President of GACA, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, along with a number of CEOs, aviation experts, and specialists from the aviation ecosystem. The event will take place from June 16 to 22, 2025. This participation aims to explore avenues for cooperation in strengthening air connectivity, fostering economic growth, and identifying promising opportunities aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. It also seeks to deepen relationships with leading global aviation and aerospace companies, promote the development of new air routes, and highlight attractive investment opportunities in the Kingdom’s aviation sector as part of the National Aviation Strategy. The Saudi aviation ecosystem’s participation underscores the role of the civil aviation sector as a key driver of the national economy and a gateway for investment. It also offers a platform to gain insight into the latest innovations in global aviation technologies and to explore strategic partnerships with leading French and international manufacturers and institutions, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional and global aviation hub. As part of its agenda at the show, the Saudi delegation—led by GACA—will organize the Saudi-French Aviation Roundtable, bringing together key industry stakeholders to exchange expertise and showcase the Kingdom’s investment opportunities in this vital and rapidly growing sector. It is worth noting that the Paris Air Show – Le Bourget is one of the most prestigious air shows in the world, attracting thousands of participants from the aviation, aerospace, and defense industries. The show provides a platform for companies to showcase new products and innovations, highlight advancements in technology, and exchange knowledge amid the global surge in demand for aviation in the coming years.

As pilgrims depart Makkah, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) continues its specialized inspection and control efforts, diligently monitoring the quality of services provided by airports, carriers, and other service providers. This dedicated team aims to ensure outstanding experiences and enhance pilgrim satisfaction. Leveraging its regulatory and supervisory role, GACA conducts round-the-clock inspection tours at airports, which serve as the first impression for pilgrims. These tours ensure the application of the highest standards and the availability of high-quality facilities and services, significantly contributing to pilgrims' comfort and addressing any challenges they may encounter. GACA's oversight involves four key phases: inspecting airport readiness for both arrival and departure; analyzing 31 performance indicators in real-time to measure wait times and satisfaction, then sharing observations with relevant authorities for immediate corrective action; preparing a post-season report detailing challenges, improvement opportunities, and lessons learned; and collaborating with airports to develop action plans for future seasons based on observations. Throughout all phases year-round, GACA addresses passenger complaints, suggestions, and inquiries, while also educating them on their rights and responsibilities via official communication channels.

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, conducted an inspection today of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to ensure the operational readiness for the departure phase of the Hajj season through the airport terminals. The visit included the Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex, Terminal 1, the Northern Terminal, the Command and Control Center, and the Air Traffic Control Tower. This inspection aimed to ensure the smooth implementation of operational plans for the departure of the Guests of Allah and to review all services provided to facilitate their travel with ease and peace of mind.

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes—on his own behalf and on behalf of all civil aviation personnel—to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister—may God protect them—on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha. His Excellency praised the Kingdom's outstanding efforts in serving the Guests of Allah, affirming that these efforts reflect the leadership’s unwavering commitment to providing pilgrims with a smooth, safe, and spiritually enriching Hajj experience. This is made possible through world-class services and the adoption of advanced technologies to facilitate the performance of Hajj rituals with ease and peace of mind. He prayed to Almighty Allah to bless the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince with continued health and well-being, and to bestow prosperity, blessings, and security upon the noble people of Saudi Arabia. He also prayed for the acceptance of the pilgrims’ Hajj and for their safe return to their homelands.  

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), met today with His Excellency Mr. Madiyar Menilbekov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom, at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. During the meeting, they discussed topics related to the development of relations between the two countries in the field of air transport services, as well as ways to enhance areas of mutual cooperation in the civil aviation sector.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation, represented by the Beneficiary Care Center in the Quality and Customer Experience sector, has won two gold awards: Best Contact Center and Best Customer Service in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This recognition was received during its participation in the annual Contact Center World conference, held from May 27-29, 2025, in Berlin, Germany. The award highlights GACA's commitment to streamlining complaint processes, upholding transparency, and resolving complaints in line with the Passenger Rights Protection Regulations. It also reflects the Authority’s efforts to raise awareness of passengers' rights, offer accessible and diverse communication channels, and ensure that passengers can claim their entitled compensations as per the regulations. Eng. Alhobayb affirmed GACA’s relentless efforts to deliver an optimum standard of service to passengers and beneficiaries, in line with the goals of the National Aviation Strategy. He also drew attention to the launch of GACA’s “Know Your Rights” campaign to educate passengers about exercising their rights, utilizing regulations, and communicating with airlines when facing challenges. This represents another step toward effective implementation of the regulations. The Authority has created an official website, dedicated social media accounts, and airport display screens to provide passengers with direct access to all relevant information. In the first quarter of 2025, GACA’s Beneficiaries Care Center handled 82,403 interactions, including 38,205 phone calls, 8,350 emails, 2,960 live chats via the X platform, 19,589 website visits, 12,730 live and automated WhatsApp chats, and 569 sign language conversations, according to statistics from the Center. Eng. Alhobayb emphasized that the Center operates at the highest possible standard of quality, with an average response time of 18 seconds, an average call duration of three minutes 24 seconds, and a call drop rate of only 3% of total interactions - an achievement underscoring the professionalism of the Center’s 100% Saudi team. Eng. Alhobayb also noted that the Center provides all services to the deaf community in sign language through video calls with customer service representatives, via a dedicated channel that ensures the privacy of beneficiaries while answering their needs, with feedback collected after each interaction through customer satisfaction surveys. Through these various communication channels, GACA aims to enhance engagement with passengers, boost customer satisfaction, and deliver a premium service around the clock. The Beneficiaries Care Center actively supports GACA’s regulatory role by employing advanced technologies to monitor all operational processes and incoming interactions, analyze beneficiary feedback, and track performance standards across all channels.    

Today, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) released its monthly classification report on air transport service providers and airports, based on the number of passenger complaints submitted to the authority during April 2025. GACA reported that passengers filed 1,267 complaints against air carriers. According to the report, flynas had the fewest complaints at 22 per 100,000 passengers, with a 100% on-time resolution rate for April. Saudia ranked second with 23 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 99% resolution rate, followed by flyadeal in third place with 38 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% resolution rate. Ticketing issues were the most reported category, followed by baggage services and flights. For airports, Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah had the fewest complaints among international airports with more than 6 million passengers annually, at 0.2% per 100,000 passengers (two complaints), with a 100% resolution rate. Among international airports with fewer than 6 million passengers annually, Abha International Airport had the fewest complaints at 1% per 100,000 passengers (three complaints), also with a 100% resolution rate. For domestic airports, King Saud Airport received the fewest complaints at 3% per 100,000 passengers (one complaint), also resolving 100% on time. GACA explained that issuing this monthly classification report aims to provide travelers with insights into the performance of air transport service providers and airports in handling passenger complaints. This helps travelers choose the right service provider while promoting transparency and demonstrating GACA’s commitment to passengers’ concerns. It also fosters fair competition among service providers to improve and develop services. In support of its airport partners, GACA prepared a booklet outlining guidelines for handling passenger complaints at airports, distributed to airport operators. The booklet defines complaint management procedures and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that must be followed for all types of complaints and inquiries. GACA also trained airline and ground service staff with direct passenger interaction on the Executive Regulations for Passenger Rights through dedicated workshops. GACA has provided multiple 24/7 communication channels to ensure continuous engagement with passengers and airport visitors, including the unified call center (1929), WhatsApp service at 0115253333, social media accounts, email, and the GACA website. Passengers can submit complaints related to boarding passes, staff conduct, services for people with disabilities and reduced mobility, and more.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today released its monthly April 2025 report on the punctuality of airports and national carriers. The report measures flight timeliness based on flights departing or arriving within 15 minutes of their scheduled time.  The report provides travelers with clear insight into the scheduling adherence of both airlines and airports, in line with the ongoing effort to enhance service quality and improve passenger experience. The April report places Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport, Abha International Airport, NEOM Bay Airport, Turaif Airport, and Wadi Al Dawasir Airport among the top performers. The report divides the Kingdom’s airports into five categories. In the first, for international airports with over 15 million annual passengers, Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport achieves first place with a 90% compliance rate. In the second, for international airports with five to 15 million annual passengers, Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport ranks first with a compliance rate of 87%.  In the third, for international airports with two to five million passengers annually, Abha International Airport attains a 91% compliance rate.  In the fourth, for international airports with fewer than two million passengers, NEOM Bay Airport gains a 95% compliance rate. In the fifth category, for domestic airports, Turaif Airport and Wadi Al Dawasir Airport jointly secures the top spot with a compliance rate of 100%. In terms of national airlines, the April report ranks Saudia first with a 89% on-time arrival rate and 89% for departures; flynas achieves a 86% on-time arrival rate and 91% for departures; while flyadeal secures a 87% arrival rate and 91% departure rate. The report also highlights top-performing domestic and international routes, with Riyadh–Abha flight recording a 96% on-time rate among domestic routes, and the Riyadh–Amman flight topping international routes with a 97% punctuality rate. These efforts contribute to the National Aviation Strategy in its aim to position the Kingdom as a leading regional aviation hub via improved operational standards, higher efficiency, and enhanced quality of service to travelers.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today released its April 2025 monthly report on the performance of Saudi Arabia’s international and domestic airports. The report evaluates performance based on 11 key criteria, in line with strategic objectives aimed at enhancing service quality, improving passenger experience, and elevating service standards at the Kingdom’s airports. The report highlights the top-performing airports, ranking Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport, Abha International Airport, Arar International Airport, and Qurayyat Airport. The report categorizes airports into five groups, with King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh securing first place among international airports handling more than 15 million passengers annually, achieving an 82% compliance rate. Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport ranked second with a compliance rate of 73%. In the second category, for international airports handling between 5 to 15 million passengers annually, Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport secures first place with a 91% compliance rate, while Madinah’s Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport also achieves 91% - with the former outperforming the latter in terms of meeting performance standards. In the third category, for international airports handling 2 to 5 million passengers annually, Abha International Airport is in first place with a 100% compliance rate—successfully reducing average wait times for both departing and arriving flights. In the fourth category, for international airports with fewer than 2 million passengers annually, Arar International Airport ranks first with a 100% compliance rate—ahead of competing airports in average wait times for arrivals and departures. In the fifth category, for domestic airports, Qurayyat Airport attains first with a100% compliance rate—outperforming all competing airports in average wait times for arriving and departing flights. GACA 11 key performance indicators include waiting time for check-in, baggage claim and passport/customs control, along with accessibility standards for the disabled and other criteria aligned with global best practices.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), led by Mr. Ali bin Mohammed Rajab, Executive Vice President for Air Transport and International Cooperation, held bilateral discussions today with Mr. Hussain bin Ahmed Al-Shuaile, Acting Director of the Aviation Affairs Directorate at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The meeting focused on reviewing issues of mutual interest and exploring ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the field of air transport.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and the Expenditure and Project Efficiency Authority (EXPRO) today signed an alignment agreement on the outcomes of the spending review policy in areas of mutual cooperation. The signing, at GACA’s Riyadh headquarters, was carried out in accordance with the respective regulatory mandates of both entities and in line with applicable regulations, rules, and directives relating to government procurement and projects.   The agreement was signed by Mr. Mohammed Al-Hamad, GACA’s Executive Vice President for Shared Services, and Eng. Abdulaziz Nassruldeen, Executive Vice President for Policies and Strategic Studies at EXPRO, on behalf of their respective organizations. This agreement stems from the commitment of both parties to forging strategic partners hips and strengthening cooperation in shared areas of work—with a focus on improved operational efficiency, enhancement of government services, optimized use of public assets and resources, and reallocation of spending as per national priorities.   Through these measures, GACA fosters cooperation with all relevant government entities to support its strategic goals and to contribute to the realization of Saudi Vision 2030. GACA also remains committed to institutional excellence, effective implementation of national policies, and elevating the quality of services provided—reinforcing national objectives and advancing sustainable development.