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Saudi Arabia was elected chair of the Air Navigation Committee of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) at the recent meeting the committee held at the organization's headquarters in Rabat, Morocco. This achievement underlines the Kingdom’s regional and international status in civil aviation; it follows its election as chair of ACAO Executive Council and membership in its committees. It further boosts Saudi Arabia’s leading role in ensuring air navigation safety and underscores its active contribution to specialized international civil aviation organizations. On this occasion, Executive Vice President of Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Captain Sulaiman Saleh Almuhaimedi highlighted that this success reflects the esteemed position Saudi Arabia holds in international and regional aviation organizations. He noted that the Kingdom has swiftly transitioned from being merely a participant to holding leadership roles in committees and working groups of regional and global organizations, adding that GACA has recently assumed the leadership of several committees and working groups. The Executive Council of the ACAO is chaired by GACA President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej who was elected during the 28th Ordinary General Assembly of ACAO, held in July in Rabat, Morocco. Saudi Arabia is one of the founding members and key supporters of ACAO, an Arab League-affiliated specialized organization established in 1996, which aims to boost cooperation and coordination among Arab states in civil aviation.

His Excellency, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, met today with the Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to the Kingdom, Mr. Lulzim Mijko, at the Authority’s headquarters in Riyadh. The meeting focused on reviewing topics of mutual interest and exploring ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the civil aviation sector.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Lithuania signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in air transport services. The accord was formalized by General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej and Lithuanian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq Ramunas Davidonis during a ceremony today at GACA's headquarters in Riyadh. The agreement sets a regulatory framework for air transport operations between the two countries and aligns with the goals of Saudi Arabia's civil aviation sector strategy. It aims to expand the operational network of national carriers, elevate the Kingdom's status as a global logistics hub, and increase its global air connectivity to 250 destinations. The agreement also supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by contributing to ambitious targets, including transporting 330 million passengers annually and establishing Saudi Arabia as a global logistics platform.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) concluded its participation yesterday in the 35th General Assembly of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), held in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo. The assembly, which took place from November 26 to 29, was opened by Prime Minister of the Republic of Congo Anatole Collinet Makosso and attended by AFCAC Chairman Silas Udahemuka, AFCAC Secretary General Adefunke Adeyemi, and heads of civil aviation authorities from the commission's member states, along with representatives of the African Union. During the main session, Executive Vice President for Air Transport and International Cooperation at GACA Ali Rajab presented the achievements of the national aviation sector strategy and the authority's role in positioning the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub connecting countries around the world. Rajab also highlighted future investment opportunities for the Kingdom in the global aviation sector. He emphasized that the Kingdom is investing $100 billion, with the goal of transporting 330 million passengers and 4.5 million tons of cargo by air, and operating 250 international destinations by 2030. Rajab also discussed Saudi Arabia’s environmental sustainability program for civil aviation (CAESP), which aims to promote sustainable aviation practices. He noted that the program underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change, and lowering the carbon footprint of civil aviation activities. Rajab reviewed the Kingdom's support for international initiatives and organizations, such as the “No Country Left Behind” campaign launched by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), as well as its contributions to supporting global aviation compliance with international standards, particularly in safety, air navigation efficiency, security, and environmental preservation. He affirmed that the Kingdom will continue to significantly support these plans and collaborate with AFCAC, member states, and all international partners to develop a safe, sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly civil aviation industry in African countries.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) showcased its initiatives, programs, and achievements in enabling advanced air mobility during its participation in the Advanced Air Mobility Conference held from November 26 to 27 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Representing GACA, the Advisor to the Deputy CEO for Strategy and Business Intelligence, Mr. Khalid Al-Harthi, outlined the Authority’s efforts to align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This includes the launch of a comprehensive roadmap for advanced air mobility, which has accelerated the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, facilitated the establishment of a new generation of vertical airports, and supported the development of infrastructure for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft – key elements of advanced air mobility. A visual presentation highlighted several successful initiatives across the Kingdom, such as the first successful VTOL flight test in the Neom region in June 2023 and the deployment of air taxi services during the Hajj season the same year. Mr. Al-Harthi emphasized the significance of international cooperation between civil aviation authorities to establish a unified regulatory framework that fosters the growth of the advanced aviation sector. He also stressed the Kingdom's commitment to promoting public-private sector partnerships and attracting leading advanced aircraft manufacturers to the Saudi market. As part of the conference agenda, GACA, represented by the Director General of Airworthiness, Mr. Matar Al-Zahrani, engaged in several technical meetings with Brazilian aviation officials. These discussions addressed key topics, including technical approvals for aircraft designs used in advanced air mobility operations, the exchange of expertise on best practices, and solutions to empower local industries to manufacture such aircraft in the Kingdom. The meetings also focused on ensuring compliance with international safety standards and exploring technical solutions to support the initial operations of advanced air mobility systems.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), represented by the General Directorate of General Aviation, organized a workshop with owners of light and sports aircraft to address key challenges in operating these aircraft. The event was held at the Saudi Flying Club headquarters in Al-Thumama. The workshop is part of GACA’s broader efforts under the “General Aviation Roadmap,” which aims to position the Kingdom as a global hub for general aviation. This initiative seeks to create an attractive environment for aviation by unlocking the sector’s potential, establishing a strong foundation, and promoting sustainability. The roadmap also focuses on enhancing infrastructure and developing specialized centers for housing and maintaining aircraft, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030. Eng. Imtiaz bin Mohammed Al-Manzari, Director General of General Aviation at GACA, stated that the workshop's goal is to improve operational services for light and sport aircraft, facilitating smoother movement across the Kingdom for local and international owners, whether visiting or transiting during their travels. Notably, the Saudi Flying Club, established in 2000, represents the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the International Air Sports Federation (FAI) and is a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). With over 500 members of various nationalities, the club oversees both locally and internationally registered aircraft. By collaborating with foreign aviation clubs, the Saudi Flying Club brings global insights and practices to enhance the light and sport aircraft sector in the Kingdom.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced the start of regular commercial flights by Transavia France between Saudi Arabia and France. The flights will operate between Lyon and Paris, with routes extending to Jeddah during the winter season of 2024, with a frequency of two flights per week commencing on December 12. This is part of GACA's continuous endeavor to strengthen air connectivity and integrate the Kingdom into the global network, consistent with the Saudi Vision 2030 goal of positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub, and the National Aviation Strategy objective of forging new routes for air travel.

Saudi Arabia has secured the presidency of the Civil Aviation Security Committee of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) for the third consecutive term after obtaining unanimous approval at the recent 40th committee meeting in the Moroccan capital, Rabat. This accomplishment underscores Saudi Arabia's pivotal role and constructive efforts in dealing with developments in the aviation industry, both regionally and globally. It clearly demonstrates the Kingdom's esteemed international standing in forums related to civil aviation and its proactive engagement in specialized international organizations in the field. On this occasion, Mohammed Al Fozan, Executive Vice-President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) for Aviation Security and Chairman of the Cooperative Aviation Security Programme– Middle East (CASP-MID), expressed his gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince for their substantial and unwavering support for the civil aviation sector. He underlined the significance of enhancing collaborative Arab efforts in aviation security and the entire aviation transportation sector, as well as maintaining continuous communication to uphold the highest safety standards in this vital industry.

The Kingdom has been unanimously re-elected to chair the Arab States Aviation Security Committee of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization for the third consecutive term. This decision was made during the 40th meeting of the organization’s Security Committee, recently held at its headquarters in Rabat, Morocco. This achievement underscores the Kingdom's pivotal role and active contributions to the air transport industry on both regional and international levels. It reflects the Kingdom’s esteemed international standing in civil aviation forums and its proactive engagement within specialized global organizations dedicated to aviation. On this occasion, Mr. Mohammed bin Saad Al-Fawzan, the Executive Vice President for Aviation Security and Head of the Cooperative Program for Aviation Security in the Middle East, extended his gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince - may God protect them - for their unwavering and substantial support for the civil aviation sector. He emphasized the importance of bolstering joint Arab initiatives in aviation security and air transport while continuing efforts to achieve the highest safety standards in this critical industry. Mr. Al-Fawzan highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment, as a founding member of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, to supporting the organization’s initiatives through active participation, coordination, and representation within its governing bodies including the Executive Council and technical committees. He reiterated the Kingdom’s dedication to advancing the organization’s objectives, enhancing its leadership at the international level, and collaborating with Arab stakeholders and global partners to strengthen the aviation and air transport sectors. The Kingdom has made significant contributions to global aviation security by launching initiatives under the Arab Civil Aviation Organization and deploying Saudi experts specialized international organizations. Additionally, it hosts the permanent headquarters of the Cooperative Program for Civil Aviation Security in the Middle East (CASP-MID), affiliated with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The Kingdom has also supported ICAO’s No Country Left Behind initiative with a $1 million contribution. Notably, Saudi Arabia has been a member of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization since its establishment in 1996. The organization, comprising 21member states, operates under the League of Arab States, with the aim of fostering cooperation and coordination among Arab nations in civil aviation. The Kingdom’s role in founding the Arab Civil Aviation Organization alongside its Arab counterparts exemplifies its commitment to advancing collaborative efforts that ensure the safe and sustainable growth of the Arab civil aviation sector.

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), met today with Sharif Walid, Ambassador of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria to the Kingdom, at the Authority's main headquarters in Riyadh. The meeting included discussions on topics of mutual interest and explored ways to strengthen cooperation between the two brotherly countries in the civil aviation sector.

The Deputy CEO of Strategy and Business Intelligence at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Eng. Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Khuraisi, reaffirmed GACA’s commitment to developing local capabilities and empowering national cadres, a cornerstone of the National Aviation Strategy. This statement was made during his participation in a dialogue session entitled “The Impact of Local Content on the Logistics Sector,” held alongside His Excellency the Assistant Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Ahmed Al-Hassan, and the Assistant Director General for Transformation at the Saudi Group, Dr. Ibrahim Shira. The session was part of the Local Content Forum, taking place from November 20-22 in the Mayadeen Al-Diriyah Hall in Riyadh. Al-Khuraisi emphasized that GACA is leading a comprehensive strategy to enhance human capital in the aviation sector, ensuring the workforce is equipped to meet the sector's goals while upholding global safety standards and protecting passengers. He noted that the Kingdom is implementing a range of initiatives to boost workforce skills, including vocational training, partnerships with higher education institutions, and professional development programs conducted in collaboration with international entities. He highlighted significant progress made through collaboration with major aviation companies, specialized educational institutions, and local universities. These partnerships aim to meet the sector's needs and leverage growth opportunities. For instance, Riyadh Aviation Company signed a memorandum of understanding last July to establish its first flight simulator at Prince Sultan University. Additionally, the Saudi Academy, a Saudi Group entity, announced earlier this year the addition of two new A320neo simulators, bringing the total to five of this type. Al-Khuraisi also revealed that GACA has formed a dedicated local content team, working in coordination with the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority. The team’s responsibilities include collaborating with to localize industries such as aircraft control structures, surfaces production, and maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) within the Kingdom. At the sector level, several initiatives have enhanced local content and economic diversification. These include the Saudi Group's “Nartaki” program, which provides vocational training to develop expertise, and the Airports Holding Company's “Jusoor” program, which creates investment opportunities for local suppliers and manufacturers. He highlighted the Kingdom’s advantage of a young and dynamic workforce eager to contribute to the sector’s growth. Currently, more than 104,000 people are employed in the sector, with a localization rate exceeding 72%. As the sector continues to expand, the demand for pilots, engineers, technicians, logistics specialists, air and ground crews, and trainers is expected to grow. By 2030, the number of workers in direct aviation professions is projected to more than double to meet increasing demands. Al-Khuraisi concluded by outlining the National Aviation Strategy’s ambitious investments of $100 billion from both public and private sectors. These investments are distributed across three main areas: $50 billion for airport development, $40 billion for modernizing the aircraft fleet, and $10 billion for services and other projects. These efforts aim to increase annual passenger numbers to 330 million and expand air connectivity to over 250 destinations worldwide.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is participating as a strategic sponsor in the sixth edition of the Saudi General Aviation Exhibition “Sand & Fun,” organized by the Saudi Aviation Club. The event will take place from November 19 to 23 at Al-Thumama Airport in King Khalid Royal Reserve in Riyadh. GACA's participation reaffirms its strategic role in supporting the general aviation sector and highlights its efforts in leading the transformation of the aviation industry to enhance the Kingdom’s economic growth. It also aims to showcase GACA's initiatives and programs that align with the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030, focusing on enhancing cooperation and building strategic partnerships with companies and relevant entities. These efforts seek to provide safe, sustainable, and efficient air transport solutions within a regulatory framework that adheres to international best practices, ensuring safe and effective operations. As part of the exhibition, GACA will participate in dialogue sessions to share inspiring stories and insights related to the general aviation sector. The sessions will also explore the latest developments in advanced air mobility and general aviation, creating new investment opportunities in large-scale projects within the aviation sector. Highlights include recent developments in air taxi technology in Neom and the success of advanced air mobility initiatives during this year’s Hajj season. Discussions will focus on how modern mobility technologies can be seamlessly integrated into urban environments to enhance logistics services, driving the general aviation sector toward innovative horizons using cutting-edge technologies. Notably, the “Sand and Fun” event is among the most prominent aviation gatherings, aiming to inspire the next generation of pilots and aviation enthusiasts through interactive dialogue sessions and special meetings with distinguished Saudi pilots. The 2024 Sand and Fun General Aviation Exhibition is expected to attract around 100,000 visitors, along with the attendance of more than 100 VIPs and industry leaders over the course of its five days.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) yesterday concluded its successful participation in the seventh annual Bahrain International Airshow, held November 13 to 15 at the Sakhir Air Base in Bahrain. The event served as a significant platform for GACA to showcase its achievements and reaffirm the Kingdom’s leadership in the global civil aviation sector. Through its pavilion, GACA highlighted the key pillars of the National Aviation Strategy, including enhanced air connectivity with a target of reaching 250 destinations, the adoption of advanced technologies, and digital transformation. It introduced its Advanced Air Mobility Roadmap and Environmental Sustainability Program, highlighting initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of aviation activities. The authority emphasized its focus on fostering investment opportunities in the aviation sector, improving the traveler experience, and streamlining operational procedures. Key topics also included quality management, passenger protection measures, and innovations in the air cargo industry, all aligning with international standards and reflecting Saudi Arabia’s prominent role in the global air transport industry. Notable achievements highlighted during the event included record-breaking milestones in economic and social development within the aviation sector. GACA underscored the Kingdom’s significant progress in global rankings and its impressive outcomes under the National Aviation Strategy. Among these, a 15% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers was recorded, reaching 94 million in the first nine months of 2024, along with a 10% rise in flight operations compared to 2023. The Bahrain International Airshow 2024 brought together a wide array of participants, including 11 sponsoring companies, 223 civil and military delegations from over 56 countries, and 135 regional and international exhibitors, making it one of the premier aviation events in the region

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has approved the issuance of annual permits for private aircraft owners. These permits apply to aircraft used for personal, non-commercial purposes, and operated by foreign companies, provided they meet the approved requirements. This initiative complements the existing individual flight permits, allowing private aircraft owners to travel to, from, and within the Kingdom more easily without needing a separate permit for each flight. This decision aligns with the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy, which seeks to enhance cooperation and establish strategic partnerships with companies and relevant entities. It aims to provide safe, sound, sustainable, and efficient transportation solutions within a regulatory framework that adheres to international best practices. These efforts support the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals, and the implementation of the General Aviation Roadmap, which prioritizes increasing private aircraft operations based in the Kingdom and streamlining procedural requirements. For additional details, please contact the Flight Permits Department at GAFC@Gaca.gov.sa. For further inquiries, contact the General Administration of General Aviation via email at generalaviation@gaca.gov.sa.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) received the "Grand Winner" award across all categories and participating entities, in addition to receiving the gold award for the Best Customer Experience Measurements in the Government Sector category during the Saudi Customer Experience Awards ceremony held in Riyadh. The 'Grand Winner' award, the highest award at the Saudi Customer Experience Awards ceremony, is bestowed upon entities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to providing a distinguished customer experience at all customer journey stages. GACA's win, from among more than 100 entities from the public and private sectors, with a total of 327 entries in the various award categories, highlights its unwavering dedication to customer service excellence in a highly competitive field. GACA's implementation of the Comprehensive Assessment of Airport Services Quality program has significantly enhanced customer experiences at the Kingdom's airports. This initiative, which is focused on improving service quality, adhering to international standards, and achieving high customer satisfaction through efficient and effective practices, has brought about tangible improvements. The program evaluates travelers' experiences, monitors satisfaction levels, assesses airport facilities and services, and reviews complaint-handling mechanisms, all to elevate the travel experience.