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His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, met today with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Kingdom, Mr. Ahmed Farooq, at the Authority's headquarters in Riyadh. During the meeting, they reviewed matters of mutual interest and discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the field of civil aviation.

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today launched its monthly report tracking airport and national carrier flight punctuality, 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 heightening the overall passenger experience. Eng. Abdulaziz Aldahmash, Executive Vice President, Quality and Customer Experience at GACA, stated that the punctuality tracking report supplements existing monthly performance evaluations of airports and airlines' service quality. He emphasized that this new initiative demonstrates GACA's commitment as a regulatory authority that puts passengers first while promoting ongoing enhancement of the Kingdom's aviation sector. The first edition of the report indicates that Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport, Jazan’s King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport, NEOM Bay International Airport, and Sharurah Airport all achieved leading positions. The report divides airports into five categories, with King Khalid International Airport ranking first in the category of international airports serving over 15 million passengers annually, achieving an 81% compliance rate. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam ranked number one in the category of international airports serving 5-15 million passengers annually, with 81% compliance. In the category of international airports serving 2-5 million passengers annually, Jazan’s King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport attained first place, at 91% compliance. NEOM Bay International Airport was awarded pole position in the category of international airports serving less than two million passengers annually, with 97% compliance, while Sharurah Airport topped the fifth category for domestic airports, hitting 97% compliance. Among national carriers, Saudia led the rankings with 86% on-time arrival rate and 88% on-time departures. Flynas achieved compliance rates of 71% for arrivals and 75% for departures, and flyadeal maintained 80% for arrivals and 83% for departures. The report also spotlights top-performing routes, with the domestic Abha-Jeddah service recording 95% on-time performance, and the international Dammam-Dubai route leading at 93% compliance. These latest GACA initiatives contribute to Saudi Arabia’s National Aviation Strategy, which aims to establish the Kingdom as a leading regional aviation hub via continuous boosting of operational standards, efficiency and passenger service.

His Excellency, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duaij, extended his congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister — may God protect them — on the occasion of the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan. His Excellency prayed to Allah Almighty to accept the fasting, prayers, and good deeds of the Muslims, and to grant the occasion many more years of joy and blessings. He also prayed for continued peace, stability, prosperity, and growth for the Kingdom under its wise leadership.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today issued its monthly report on the performance of the Kingdom's domestic and international airports for January 2025, based on 11 key performance indicators. The report aligns with GACA's strategic directions to improve services provided to passengers, raise service quality, and enhance the passenger experience at the Kingdom's airports. The report ranked King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan, Arar International Airport, and Al-Gurayat Airport among the top-performing airports. Airports were categorized into five groups. In the first category for international airports with more than 15 million annual passengers, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh ranked first with 82% compliance, surpassing King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which came second with 82% compliance, with King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh outperforming King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah in meeting performance standards. In the second category for international airports with 5 to 15 million annual passengers, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam secured first place with 82% compliance, while Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport recorded 73% compliance. In the third category for international airports with two to five million annual passengers, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan ranked first with 100% compliance, followed by Abha International Airport with 100% compliance, with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan outperforming Abha International Airport in meeting performance standards. In the fourth category for international airports with fewer than two million annual passengers, Arar International Airport ranked first with 100% compliance, outperforming other airports in average waiting times for arrival and departure flights. In the fifth category for domestic airports, Al-Gurayat Airport secured first place with 100% compliance, surpassing all competing airports in average waiting times for arrival and departure flights. GACA's airport performance evaluation relies on 11 key performance indicators, including passenger waiting times during travel procedures, time spent at baggage claim, immigration and customs areas, and standards related to passengers with disabilities, in accordance with the best global practices.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), represented by its General Administration of General Aviation, organized a workshop in Riyadh as part of its efforts to boost international investment in the general aviation sector. More than 30 representatives participated from leading aircraft manufacturers, maintenance service providers, and ground services companies, along with representatives from the Kingdom's general aviation airports and the Ministry of Investment. The workshop seeks to attract investment to the Kingdom's general aviation market, focusing on maintenance, airport operations, and ground services sectors. It explores the latest strategic developments and promising investment opportunities in general aviation, while addressing key challenges and opportunities in this vital sector. It also examines ways to develop airport infrastructure and enhance operational efficiency, contributing to sector growth and sustainability. Furthermore, it highlights key achievements in facilitating procedures, which led to a 24% increase in general aviation traffic in 2024. During the workshop, the Director General of General Aviation at GACA, Eng. Imtiaz Manzari, stated that this event's objective is to showcase investment opportunities to foreign companies in maintenance, airport operations, and ground services sectors, with the attendance of leading airport operators in the Kingdom. He stressed that GACA is committed to creating an incentivizing business environment to attract international investors and establish the Kingdom's position as a global general aviation hub. This step aligns with the Kingdom's strategic objectives to boost its global competitiveness. As the sector continues its significant expansion, GACA maintains its efforts to develop an attractive investment climate that helps achieve general aviation roadmap objectives. The workshop serves as an important dialogue platform between government entities, companies, and foreign investors, highlighting the Kingdom's strategic directions and its efforts to enhance its competitive capability as a global general aviation hub. It also spotlights the investment incentives offered by the Kingdom and the supporting legislation aimed at attracting major specialized companies in aviation services, maintenance, and operations.

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej yesterday inaugurated the new Jeddah headquarters of Nera, a leading company in technology and innovation solutions. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs Eng. Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salamah, Nera board chairman Bandar Al-Mohanna, board members, and executive leadership. Al-Duailej toured the facility, including the state-of-the-art Digital Hub, which is equipped with the latest technologies to enhance Nera’s ability to provide innovative digital solutions for its clients. The GACA president emphasized that the establishment of Nera represents a significant addition to the aviation sector, aiming to meet both local and international industry needs through cutting-edge solutions. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Aviation Strategy, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in aviation technology and innovation.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), hosted the South Central Distribution Information Region (SCDDR) meeting, along with the accompanying training workshop, held from February 24 to 27, 2025, in Jeddah. The meeting was chaired by the Spanish center, as the supervisor of the South Central Distribution Information Region (SCDDR), with participation from representatives of international Search and Rescue Mission Centers (MCCs) located within the region, including the Saudi, Emirati, Qatari, Algerian, Nigerian, and Togolese centers. Additionally, representatives from the International Program Secretariat (COSPAS-SARSAT) were present. The meeting discussed performance efficiency reports for the systems and devices of the International Search and Rescue Mission Centers (MCCs) within the region. It also provided participants with updates on technical, operational, and administrative developments, as well as an overview of the future directions of the program in the field of satellite-based search and rescue through the International COSPAS-SARSAT Program. Furthermore, the meeting reviewed the results and recommendations, which will be presented to the International Program’s Joint Committee in its next session for review and approval. These will then be documented in the program's records and submitted to the Program Council for appropriate action. The meeting was accompanied by a training workshop aimed at enhancing knowledge of the International COSPAS-SARSAT Program, improving the technical and operational understanding of handling distress signals, and strengthening collaboration to develop search and rescue services, as well as sharing best practices. Representatives from several countries within the service area of the Saudi Mission Control Center (SAMCC) participated in the workshop. Additionally, representatives from government entities involved in search and rescue and equipped with terminal devices from the Saudi Arabian Satellite Search and Rescue Mission Center (SAMCC) attended. These entities included the Royal Saudi Air Force, the General Directorate of Border Guards, and the National Operations Center of the Ministry of Interior.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation in Riyadh recently hosted a regional seminar on the privatization of airport security services and the single security checkpoint focusing on opportunities and challenges. This event was organized in collaboration with the Arab Civil Aviation Organization the European Civil Aviation Conference and the African Civil Aviation Commission. The seminar ran from February 24 to 26 2025 and gathered over 120 experts and specialists in aviation security. Participants represented 55 countries across the Arab African and European regions alongside key players from the aviation industry and regional organizations. The primary goal of the seminar was to create a space for dialogue and the exchange of experiences between countries on privatizing airport security services and implementing the single security checkpoint concept. The discussions also focused on improving the efficiency of security operations reducing costs and maintaining the highest standards of safety and security. The event featured several panel discussions led by international experts in aviation security. These sessions explored the opportunities and challenges of privatizing aviation security functions and implementing the single security checkpoint. On the first day the seminar highlighted both current and emerging threats to civil aviation security. Topics covered included key aspects of privatizing aviation security challenges after privatization opportunities presented by the single security checkpoint and the importance of ensuring equivalent security measures across regions. The seminar also emphasized the need for building capacity and fostering stronger international and regional cooperation in civil aviation security.

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej emphasized that Saudi Arabia's national aviation strategy is designed to enhance the sector's capabilities, aligning with global trends to meet the demands of national tourism and economic development.  Speaking at the Aerospace Connect Forum in Jeddah, President Al-Duailej highlighted that the national strategy aims to expand the number of airlines, establish advanced maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) centers, increase aircraft fleet capacity, and strengthen human capital and infrastructure to drive sector growth. These objectives align with Vision 2030, which seeks to position Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub.  He underscored that to support this vision, GACA has launched key initiatives to develop the aviation manufacturing sector and supply chains. One of the most significant projects is the Maintenance and Repair Village (MRO) in Jeddah, inaugurated in December 2023, covering an area of one million square meters. The facility includes a state-of-the-art jet propulsion center, enhancing Saudi Aerospace Engineering's capabilities in servicing new-generation wide- and narrow-body aircraft engines for regional airlines.  Another major initiative, according to President Al-Duailej, is the establishment of Integrated Special Logistics Zones, introduced in October 2022, which provide competitive incentives, including a 50-year income tax exemption. These zones, launched with Apple as a key investor, also feature a unified center for approving light manufacturing and repair operations, as well as trade distribution companies.  President Al-Duailej stressed the importance of continuing to develop local aviation expertise, noting that GACA’s human capital development strategy estimates that Saudi Arabia's aviation sector will require 274,000 direct jobs by 2030—a 2.6-fold increase from the current 104,000 jobs. He reaffirmed the commitment to building a strong and sustainable aviation industry, ensuring the Kingdom remains at the forefront of global aviation development.

Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), will host the South Central Data Distribution Region (SCDDR) meeting and an accompanying training workshop from Monday to Thursday, February 24–27, in Jeddah. The SCDDR is part of the International Cospas-Sarsat Programme, a satellite-aided search and rescue initiative. The meeting will be chaired by the Spanish center, which oversees the SCDDR, and will include representatives from various mission control centers (MCCs) within the region in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Algeria, Nigeria, and Togo, along with representatives from the Cospas-Sarsat program. This hosting reflects Saudi Arabia’s active role in the aviation sector and in the field of satellite-based search and rescue, as the Kingdom is a key player at local, regional, and international levels. Saudi Arabia was one of the first countries in the region to join the Cospas-Sarsat Programme as a provider of ground segments. During the meeting, participants will discuss reports on the performance efficiency of MCCs operating within the region. Updates on technical, operational, and administrative matters will also be presented, alongside discussions on the program’s future directions in satellite-based search and rescue. Additionally, a report summarizing the meeting’s outcomes, including recommendations, will be prepared for the upcoming session of the program’s joint committee. This report will be reviewed to ensure that its recommendations are recorded and forwarded to the Cospas-Sarsat Council for appropriate action.

The General Authority Of Civil Aviation (GACA) launched its “Ajwaa” integrated digital platform, along with its new corporate identity and updated website.  This initiative reflects the significant transformation in the Saudi aviation sector, vital to Saudi Arabia's economic growth and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.  GACA unveiled the digital platform Wednesday evening at its Riyadh headquarters. Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of GACA, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, along with GACA President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, vice presidents, CEOs, officials, and directors from various aviation companies and national carriers, attended the ceremony.  The Ajwaa platform provides all civil aviation services, ensuring quick and efficient access for users. It creates a fully digital environment for stakeholders, improving operational efficiency, transparency, and GACA's regulatory role.  Al-Duailej said the new identity, slogan "Together for New Horizons," Ajwaa platform, and updated website mark a new era for GACA, shaping the future of aviation in Saudi Arabia with the leadership's full support.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today issued the Air Transport Service Providers and Airports Ranking Index, based on the number of complaints filed by passengers with the Authority during January 2025. The Authority reported that the total number of passenger complaints against air carriers reached 1,486. It clarified that Saudi Airlines recorded the lowest number of complaints, with 26 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% complaint resolution rate within the specified timeframe for January. Flynas ranked second with 32 complaints per 100,000 passengers, also achieving a 100% complaint resolution rate. Flyadeal ranked third, with 37 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% resolution rate, according to the index. The most frequently reported complaint categories in January were related to baggage services, followed by ticketing, and then flight-related issues. The Authority further noted that King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh received the fewest complaints, with a rate of 1% per 100,000 passengers, in the index for international airports with over 6 million annual passengers. It received 20 complaints, all of which were resolved on time (100%). Taif International Airport had the fewest complaints among international airports with fewer than 6 million annual passengers, with 1% per 100,000 passengers, totaling one complaint, which was also resolved within the designated timeframe (100%). In the domestic airports index, King Saud Airport recorded the lowest number of complaints, with a rate of 3% per 100,000 passengers, totaling one complaint, which was resolved on time (100%). GACA explained that the issuance of the monthly report for the Air Transport Service Providers and Airports Ranking Index (based on complaints filed with the Authority) aims to provide travelers with information on the performance of air transport providers and airports in addressing customer complaints. This enables passengers to make informed decisions when selecting a service provider, enhances transparency, and demonstrates the Authority’s commitment to addressing passenger complaints. It also fosters fair competition between service providers and airports to develop and improve services. As part of its support for its airport partners, the General Authority of Civil Aviation has developed a booklet providing guidelines on handling passenger complaints at airports. The booklet has been distributed to airport operators and includes specifications, service-level agreements, and compliance requirements for handling all types of complaints and inquiries. It also includes training for employees of national airlines and ground service companies who interact directly with passengers to ensure adherence to the executive regulations for customer rights protection, facilitated through workshops. Additionally, the Authority has provided multiple communication channels available around the clock to ensure engagement with travelers and airport visitors. These include the unified contact center (1929), WhatsApp service at +966 11 525 3333, social media accounts, email, and the official website, where complaints related to boarding passes, employee conduct, services for persons with disabilities and limited mobility, and more can be submitted.

The air transport movement in Saudi Arabia witnessed exceptional growth in 2024, achieving unprecedented record numbers in passenger traffic, which exceeded 128 million travelers across various airports in the Kingdom. This includes 59 million passengers on domestic flights and 69 million on international flights, marking a growth rate of 15% compared to 2023, and an increase of approximately 25% compared to pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating the recovery of the air transport sector in the Kingdom from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) revealed in its air traffic performance report released today that the number of flights across Saudi airports in 2024 reached approximately 905,000, an 11% increase compared to 2023. This includes 474,000 domestic flights and 431,000 international flights. The scope of air connectivity saw a 16% increase, with Saudi Arabia now linked to over 170 destinations worldwide, with flights departing to and from the Kingdom. Additionally, air cargo witnessed exceptional growth, increasing by 34%, reaching over 1.2 million tons in 2024. Of this, 1.17 million tons were handled by the top three airports, including 573,000 tons at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, 461,000 tons at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and 140,000 tons at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. The four main airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah accounted for 82% of the total air traffic, reflecting their vital role in the Kingdom's aviation network. The region also witnessed a significant increase in air traffic during the last Hajj season (May 9 - July 21), with 1.5 million pilgrims arriving for Hajj, representing 40% of the total number of international passengers during that period. According to the British company OAG, which specializes in flight data, the Jeddah-Riyadh route saw the largest increase in capacity globally among domestic routes in 2024, while the Cairo-Jeddah route became the second busiest international route worldwide. It is worth noting that the General Authority of Civil Aviation is the regulatory body for the air transport sector in Saudi Arabia. It is responsible for setting the sector's executive regulations, overseeing their implementation, and monitoring compliance with relevant authorities. This contributes to enhancing the quality of air transport services and improving the passenger experience. In line with its strategy, GACA is shaping the future of the sector to create a competitive and attractive investment environment, positioning it as a leader in the Middle East and globally, and contributing to the achievement of its objectives to double its capacity by 2030.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is participating in the Saudi House initiative during the World Economic Forum annual meeting 2025, which will be held from January 20 to 24 in Davos, Switzerland. The event is organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning with participation from various government entities. GACA will showcase the future of aviation through investment opportunities and incentives offered by the sector in Saudi Arabia, public-private partnerships for airport development, and the enhancement of aviation's position as a key driver supporting Saudi Vision 2030. The showcase will highlight the achievements of the aviation sector strategy and its global transformation. The authority will also introduce exceptional investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia launched through the aviation sector strategy, which aims to establish the Kingdom's aviation sector as an economic growth enabler, including the aviation status report. Mohammed bin Fahad Alkhuraisi, Vice President of Strategy & Business Intelligence at GACA, stated that during the Saudi House events, the authority will focus on investment opportunities in projects and incentives offered by the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia, aiming to attract investments exceeding $100 billion. These investments include airports, airlines, ground services, cargo, and logistics. Breaking down these investments: airports will receive more than $50 billion; new aircraft purchase orders amount to approximately $40 billion. The remaining $10 billion Is allocated for other projects, including $5 billion for establishing special logistics zones around the three main airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. "The Kingdom offers unprecedented global investment opportunities in the civil aviation sector, with the Saudi National Aviation Strategy aiming to double passenger numbers, connect the Kingdom to more than 250 destinations, accommodate 330 million passengers, and reach an air cargo volume of 4.5 million tons," Al-Khuraisi said. The Saudi House initiative, organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning with participation from various government entities, will host several dialogue sessions to discuss the latest significant trends in social and economic transformation both locally and internationally. The Saudi House pavilion reflects the Kingdom's growing role and effective influence in the international arena, serving as a platform connecting entrepreneurs, change-makers, and innovators to present strategic visions on vital fields shaping our world's future.

A high-level Saudi-US Advanced Air Mobility Roundtable has discussed ways to enhance economic ties in the air mobility sector, explore partnership opportunities, and exchange expertise in the air mobility industry and relevant services. The meeting also highlighted the sector’s strategic programs and initiatives aimed at advancing air mobility in line with the highest global standards and the Saudi Vision 2030. Held in Riyadh, the meeting brought together executive officials from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), 12 US companies specializing in advanced air mobility operating in Saudi Arabia, and representatives from government entities and the private sector. Participants included the Ministry of Investment, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Human Resources Development Fund, Advanced Electronics Company, Matarat Holding, and NEOM. The roundtable reviewed integrated logistics zones, the roadmap for advanced air mobility, and several successful trials conducted at multiple locations in the Kingdom. These include Saudi Arabia’s first successful vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) flight in NEOM in June 2023 and the successful air taxi trial during the Hajj season of 1445 AH. Moreover, the discussion covered GACA’s role in developing the civil aviation industry, investment opportunities in the sector, and key strategic programs such as the aviation sector’s objectives under the Saudi Vision 2030, the transformation program, infrastructure improvements, airport services enhancement, and the expansion of the airport network, leveraging the Kingdom’s unique geographic location connecting three continents. The meeting also highlighted civil aviation sector initiatives in Saudi Arabia, available investment and collaboration opportunities, the localization of advanced air mobility manufacturing, and the development of human capital in the sector.