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15 May 2025

GACA President Meets Chargé d’Affaires of the Libyan Embassy in Saudi Arabia

The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, met today with Mr. Fateh Bashina, Chargé d'Affaires of the Libyan Embassy in Saudi Arabia, at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The two sides discussed topics of mutual interest and explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the civil aviation sector.  

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11 May 2025

SFD and GACA sign MoU to improve airport infrastructure in developing countries

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore opportunities for collaboration in international development. The MoU was signed by SFD CEO, H.E. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad and GACA President, H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, during a ceremony held at the Riyadh headquarters of SFD. The MoU aims to strengthen cooperation and integration between the SFD and GACA to support sustainable SFD-funded projects that promote long-term growth in developing countries. The agreement also enhances the proactive role of GACA in the global civil aviation sector, by leveraging the shared capabilities of both parties to improve airport infrastructure in beneficiary countries—thereby contributing to better service quality and enhanced regional and international air connectivity. This MoU aligns with Saudi Arabia’s longstanding efforts to boost international development. The SFD has over the past 50 years financed and promoted 800-plus projects and programs in over 100 developing nations, with total investment exceeding USD 21 billion, contributing to both social progress and economic prosperity in all those countries. In this context, the MoU bolsters the strategic objectives of GACA and its active role in the global aviation sector, via such key partnerships and in line with international best practices and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The agreement further reflects the commitment of GACA to expand its collaboration with a broad range of public and private sector entities.  

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08 May 2025

Saudi Arabia Election to ICAO Council Reflects Kingdom’s Global Aviation Prominence

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej said Saudi Arabia’s election to represent the Arab Group on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) council underscores the Kingdom's significant role in the civil aviation sector regionally and internationally.  Al-Duailej, who also chairs the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) executive council, added that the unanimous decision reflects its leading position within specialized international bodies.  Al-Duailej's remarks came on the sidelines of the 30th extraordinary session of the ACAO general assembly, held Thursday in the Moroccan capital, Rabat.  He noted that recent executive council meetings and an extraordinary session of the ACAO provided a significant platform to discuss critical aviation sector issues. These issues included those concerning safety and security, and the integration of modern technologies for system development, he added.  Al-Duailej stressed that the aviation industry’s growing challenges demand enhanced coordination and collaboration among nations, particularly in preparation for the ICAO council meetings scheduled for September in Montreal.  Such efforts, he added, will strengthen Arab representation and help secure the highest possible number of seats on the council.

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08 May 2025

Saudi Arabia Unanimously Elected as Representative of Arab Group at ICAO Council

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been unanimously elected as a representative of the Arab Group at the council of the UN International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The election took place during the 30th extraordinary session of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) General Assembly, held on Thursday in the Moroccan capital, Rabat.  Saudi Arabia’s election came after nominations were submitted by countries for ICAO council membership through the Arab Group. Elections for the council will occur during the upcoming ICAO assembly, scheduled to take place from September 23 to October at the organization's headquarters in Canada’s Montréal.  Heading the Kingdom’s delegation at the ACAO session, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) board Chairman Saleh Al-Jasser praised the Kingdom’s efforts to achieve such feat.  Al-Jasser expressed his gratitude to the Saudi leadership for the unlimited support the civil aviation sector in the Kingdom receives. He affirmed that the election embodies the importance of the role Saudi Arabia plays in the sector both locally and regionally, in addition to its active efforts within pertinent international organizations. He underscored the importance of strengthening collective Arab efforts in the air transport industry and continuous communication to achieve the highest safety standards for this vital sector.  “The Kingdom will spare no effort to support Arab cooperation, based on the directives of the government,” Al-Jasser stated at the conclusion of his speech, affirming the government’s commitment to consolidating the foundations of Arab and global cooperation.

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07 May 2025

GACA President Chairs Arab Civil Aviation Organization Executive Council 72nd Session in Rabat

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President and Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) Executive Council Chairman Abdulaziz Al-Duailej chaired today the 72nd session of the council, held in Rabat, Morocco. The meeting was attended by heads of delegations from member states, the director general of ACAO, and a representative from the League of Arab States.  In his opening remarks, Al-Duailej welcomed the decision to expand the executive council’s membership from nine to 11 members, describing it as an institutional advancement rooted in a deep belief in broader participation, inclusiveness, and the enrichment of perspectives and expertise. He welcomed Tunisia and Yemen as new council members, noting that their inclusion will bring valuable contributions to the council’s discussions and outcomes.  He emphasized that the meeting agenda includes critical organizational and technical topics that directly impact the future of Arab civil aviation. These topics require a collaborative and unified action to generate practical recommendations that align with global developments and address increasing challenges in regulatory, technical, and economic domains. He highlighted the sector’s ongoing transformation, including the adoption of smart airspace management technologies, acceleration of digital transformation in airports, and the expansion of aviation safety systems — all within the framework of international environmental commitments.  Al-Duailej also underscored the importance of forming a unified Arab vision on civil aviation issues and presenting it effectively on the global stage to reflect the Arab world's institutional maturity and strengthen its position in international air transport.  “In light of these developments,” he stated, “it is vital that we redefine our Arab presence as an influential force in the global aviation sector. This can only be achieved through the articulation of a unified Arab perspective and a strategic presence in international and regional forums.”  He also stressed the need for collective preparation for the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council elections during its General Assembly in September 2025. He described it as a strategic opportunity for Arab coordination, calling for the nomination of a unified Arab candidate with full backing to ensure the retention of this influential seat — a key platform for advocating regional interests in the global aviation industry.  Al-Duailej further highlighted the centrality of Arab human capital in building strong aviation institutions. He called for prioritizing investments in national talent through advanced professional training programs aligned with global industry standards and reinforcing institutional evaluation mechanisms linked to measurable performance indicators.  He also called for a review of ACAO’s technical structure, particularly its technical committees and support mechanisms for member states, especially those undergoing reconstruction or modernization. He urged the adoption of regional technical solidarity programs based on thorough national needs assessments, development pathways tailored to each state’s priorities, and building strategic partnerships with relevant regional and international organizations. These steps, he noted, are essential to strengthening ACAO’s global presence through knowledge exchange, the adoption of best practices, and fostering international cooperation in technical areas — ultimately empowering member states and enhancing institutional effectiveness.  Following his address, the council reviewed the organization’s governance, technical, and financial matters. Discussions included follow-up on the recommendations of the 71st session, approval of outputs from ACAO’s technical committees — including Air Transport, Air Navigation, Aviation Safety, Aviation Security, Environment, and Media and Institutional Communication — in addition to updates on the implementation of ACAO’s annual activity program and recent developments in global and Arab air transport.

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06 May 2025

Saudi Civil Aviation Strategy Focuses on Shaping the Future Through Collaboration, Alignment, and Innovation, Says Al-Duailej

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz Al-Duailej affirmed that the Saudi Aviation Strategy focuses on shaping the future through collaboration, innovation, and alignment, aiming to drive growth, boost competitiveness, and ensure enhanced services for passengers, while accelerating the aviation sector’s expansion across the region.  He made these remarks during his participation in the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Aviation Day Middle East and North Africa (IATA Aviation Day MENA 2025), held for the first time in Saudi Arabia.  Hosted by Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, in Jeddah from May 6 to 7, the event gathers leading aviation executives and experts from around the world to discuss key opportunities and developments shaping the future of the air transport sector.  In his opening address, Al-Duailej thanked IATA and Saudia for organizing this important event, emphasizing that such gatherings serve as a platform to enhance cooperation and accelerate aviation development across the region.  He highlighted the pivotal role of Saudi Vision 2030 in shaping the future of aviation not only within the Kingdom but also regionally and globally. He expressed eagerness to engage with industry partners to exchange insights, explore emerging prospects, and strengthen the Kingdom’s standing as a global hub connecting East and West.  Al-Duailej noted that the MENA region is a vital player and a strategic hub for the future of global aviation, with a $9.48 trillion economy supported by a predominantly young population—fueling tourism, trade, and innovation, while fostering growth through strategic investment and international collaboration.  He added that in 2024, passenger traffic in the Middle East exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 9%, more than double the global growth rate, while Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector recorded a notable increase of over 24% compared to pre-pandemic figures.  He reviewed the Kingdom's aviation sector strategy and its key milestones, notably the order of more than 500 aircraft by Saudi carriers, significantly expanding regional capacity and competitiveness.  Al-Duailej also highlighted the launch of the Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh in October 2022, with Apple as a key tenant—underscoring the Kingdom's role as a global logistics and commercial hub—and pointed to the continued operation and development of airports across the country.

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04 May 2025

GACA President: Digital Transformation and Smart Tech Key to Enhancing Aviation Occupational Safety

The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, affirmed that smart technologies and digital transformation serve as essential pillars in supporting occupational safety and health (OSH) and enhancing protection within airports and aviation facilities. He emphasized that this is one of GACA’s top priorities, particularly in light of the sector’s rapid growth and expansion.   This came during H.E. Al-Duailej’s participation in the panel discussion titled “Integrating National Efforts and the Role of the Private Sector in Enhancing Occupational Safety and Health in the Transport and Logistics Sector: A Strategic Vision for a Sustainable Future”, held as part of the 7th International Conference on Occupational Safety and Health 2025, taking place from 4 to 6 May at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh under the theme: “The Future of Occupational Safety and Health.”   Mr. Al-Duailej noted that the Authority is working to enhance the airport work environment through an integrated system of advanced technologies. These include intelligent monitoring systems for working conditions linked to real-time surveillance cameras, predictive analytics based on big data to identify risk indicators, training programs utilizing virtual and augmented reality technologies, and smart geolocation systems to track vehicles and equipment on the airside — all contributing to improved traffic management and collision prevention.   H.E. noted that GACA implements executive regulations aligned with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD)’s frameworks, covering safe workplace requirements, use of protective equipment, regulated working hours, mandatory training, incident reporting and investigation, and comprehensive risk assessment and management. These efforts aim to maintain a balanced approach between sectoral growth and the safety of national human capital.   H.E. also highlighted that GACA requires airport operators and air service providers to implement effective Safety Management Systems (SMS), conduct precise and periodic risk assessments for construction projects, and deliver comprehensive awareness and training programs for all operational personnel. The emergency response teams are also being prepared in line with the highest international standards.   Furthermore, GACA maintains strategic relationships with several international organizations including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Airports Council International (ACI), along with aviation authorities worldwide. These partnerships support the exchange of best practices, organization of joint training programs, participation in international secondment schemes, support for research and studies on occupational hazards, and the development of smart solutions such as AI applications and predictive monitoring to enhance safety performance.   It is worth noting that the 7th Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference (GOSH7) serves as a leading scientific platform to explore the future of occupational safety globally. The conference aims to develop preventive policies and procedures, facilitate the exchange of international experiences, and showcase the latest technologies that contribute to safe and sustainable work environments aligned with development and quality of life objectives.

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01 May 2025

GACA hosts workshop with newly appointed Ambassadors of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) organized a workshop today at its Riyadh headquarters, in the presence of GACA President H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, and attended by the newly appointed Ambassadors of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Union of the Comoros, the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, Bangladesh, the Republic of Mozambique, and the United Mexican States. H.E. Al-Duailej welcomed the ambassadors, congratulating them on the royal trust bestowed upon them and wishing them success in their missions. The workshop featured a comprehensive presentation on the National Aviation Sector Strategy and its pivotal role in realizing the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030—positioning Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub leveraging its strategic geographic location connecting three continents. The session also included a briefing for Their Excellencies the ambassadors on GACA’s bilateral and multilateral international relations, along with a discussion on the Authority’s integration with the work of diplomatic missions—both of which contribute to achievement of the strategy and to the strengthening of Saudi Arabia's global connectivity.

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01 May 2025

GACA's President Meets with Ireland Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, met today with H.E. Mr. Gerry Cunningham, Ambassador of Ireland to Saudi Arabia, at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The two sides discussed topics of mutual interest and explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the civil aviation sector.

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28 April 2025

Saudi-Chinese Roundtable Addresses Collaboration in Logistics, Air Cargo Zones

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.

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28 April 2025

GACA President: Saudi Vision 2030 strengthens Saudi Arabia’s global standing in aviation sector

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.

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24 April 2025

GACA Issues the Classification of Air Transport Service Providers and Airports for March

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.

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24 April 2025

GACA President Chairs 16th Steering Committee Meeting to Activate Aviation Sector Strategy

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.  

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23 April 2025

GACA Hosts Mobile Cybersecurity Awareness Exhibition

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.

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22 April 2025

GACA Launches March 2025 On-Time Performance Report for Airports and National Carriers

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.

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Last Update Date For Page Content : 20/11/2025 12:00 Saudi Arabia Time

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