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Riyadh — The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has awarded the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) the "Hayyak" Saudi Quality Certificate in recognition of its excellence in customer service. The certificate was presented to Eng. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Dahmash, Executive Vice President for Quality and Customer Experience at GACA, by Eng. Saud bin Rashid Al-Askar, SASO’s Deputy Governor for Conformity and Operations, during an official visit by a SASO delegation to GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. GACA earned the certificate after successfully meeting SASO’s quality requirements across all types of service centers that support beneficiaries. The recognition comes as part of GACA’s broader efforts to enhance service standards and deliver high-quality experiences to travelers and stakeholders alike. Eng. Faisal bin Khalid Al-Habib, Director General of Beneficiary Care at GACA, affirmed the authority’s commitment to delivering the highest levels of service. He explained that receiving the certificate followed the implementation of all requirements under the technical regulation for the Saudi Quality Certificate for customer service centers. This step aligns with the principles of institutional excellence and international quality management practices. He added that the achievement reflects GACA’s ongoing mission to continuously enhance the traveler experience and deliver services that meet the highest global benchmarks, in line with the National Aviation Strategy. The Beneficiary Care Center at GACA underwent a comprehensive evaluation to assess the quality of services it provides. The review was based on a set of rigorous criteria aimed at raising competitiveness and service standards. The assessment covered all service channels, including face-to-face interactions, phone services, self-service kiosks, and electronic platforms. The certification framework seeks to unify service procedures, reduce processing times, and improve customer satisfaction by creating a consistent and efficient service environment across government, private, and non-profit sectors. GACA continues to deliver services to passengers and stakeholders with a strong focus on quality and professionalism, ensuring they align with the strategic goals of the aviation sector. In June 2024, GACA received two gold awards for Best Customer Service and Best Government Contact Center in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region during its participation in the Contact Center World Conference held in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Earlier that year, in March, GACA also received an award from the Consumer Protection Association during a ceremony held in Riyadh to mark World Consumer Rights Day. The award recognized the authority’s efforts in protecting passenger rights and ensuring fair, transparent services.  

The employees of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) celebrated the Kingdom’s 94th National Day under the theme “Glory, Pride, and Belonging”, through a series of patriotic events and artistic activities. The celebration was held at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh and attended by His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA; Raed bin Hassan Al-Idrissi, CEO of Matarat Holding Company; and the Authority’s Vice Presidents. The celebration, organized by the Shared Services Sector through the Internal Communications Department, took place in a specially prepared "Celebration Tent." It featured performances by the National Orchestra, showcasing patriotic songs that embodied the spirit of the occasion, along with the traditional Saudi Ardah dance. His Excellency Al-Duailej also joined staff in performing the Ardah, sharing in the joy and pride that reflected the Kingdom’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. The event also served to deepen national identity and reinforce loyalty to the homeland and its leadership. GACA employees expressed their pride and appreciation for this meaningful occasion, praying that God continues to bless the Kingdom, its leadership, and its security forces, and to preserve the nation’s peace, prosperity, and stability.

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, extended—on his behalf and on behalf of all the sector’s employees—his heartfelt congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister (may God protect them both), and to the honorable Saudi people on the occasion of the 94th National Day under the theme "We Dream and Achieve." He stated: "Our beloved homeland celebrates the 94th Saudi National Day, a day that marks the unification and development initiated by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman (may God have mercy on him). This journey of giving and growth continues in our present era, which is empowered by diverse objectives and ambitions, under a wise leadership that has built a glorious legacy with the efforts of generations, advancing our country’s development phase to become—praise be to God—a global destination on all fronts and a world leader economically and developmentally." He added: "These unprecedented achievements were accomplished, by God’s grace, and through meticulous planning and construction, resulting in comprehensive outputs and objectives that contributed to a prosperous and diversified economy." His Excellency Al-Duailej also noted the great support that the aviation and air transport sector receives from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince (may God protect them both). He explained that the sector has achieved record-breaking numbers and unprecedented accomplishments in economic and social development, as well as global leadership across various levels. These include launching several developmental projects such as the master plan for King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, the master plan for Abha International Airport, the opening of Red Sea International Airport, the development and expansion project of Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, the opening of the development and expansion project of Al-Ahsa International Airport, the inauguration of the new international departure terminal at Taif International Airport, the launch of the autonomous air taxi experience for the first time during the Hajj season, and granting the first operational license to use drones for building cleaning. This reflects the authority’s commitment to enabling safe and innovative advanced air mobility solutions. The authority also launched the Knowledge Testing Center for aviation employees and the first phase of the electronic gates at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. His Excellency Al-Duailej concluded by praying to Almighty God to protect the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, and to continue to bestow upon our country the blessings of security, safety, prosperity, well-being, glory, and elevation.

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, met today with His Excellency Dr. Haitham Saleh Abu Al-Foul, Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to the Kingdom, at the authority’s headquarters in Riyadh. During the meeting, they reviewed topics of mutual interest and discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the two brotherly countries in the field of civil aviation.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) participated on Friday in the activities of the Summit of the Future, which was organized by the United Nations. The summit aims to adopt a unified global vision for the future, with participation of UN member states, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions, the private sector, and youth. GACA's participation included organizing a virtual session on the sidelines of the summit, titled "Youth Development in the Civil Aviation Sector," in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This marks GACA's first participation in UN events, and its proposal was approved among 40 other activities out of 400 proposals submitted by various countries. The participation comes as part of the Kingdom's efforts to support and empower youth in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and to highlight GACA's role in training and qualifying young cadres to contribute to the civil aviation sector. In his speech, the GACA president, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, said that estimates indicate that there will be a need for 284,000 new pilots in the next ten years, and there is also a demand for Maintenance professionals. In Saudi Arabia, the aviation sector is expected to create about 279,000 direct jobs by 2030, which represents an increase of approximately 300% over the current 73,000 jobs. He added: "Youth constitute more than 60% of Saudi Arabia's population, and this energy is exactly what we need to drive innovation and ensure the sector's sustainability. The Saudi Vision 2030 focuses on youth development, and aviation is one of the key sectors in which we invest heavily through education, training, and professional development. The United Nations will hold the "Summit of the Future" on September 22 and 23, with the participation of world leaders as part of the high-level week of the General Assembly. The summit aims to update and activate UN institutions to keep pace with the rapid changes and challenges of the 21st century. The summit was preceded by preparatory action days, September 20 and 21, with the aim of creating additional opportunities to engage all stakeholders.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued its August report on the performance of domestic and international airports in Saudi Arabia. Airports are assessed based on 11 operational performance standards, which align with strategic objectives to enhance services and ensure a seamless traveller experience at Kingdom airports. The report highly ranked King Khalid International Airport, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, Abha International Airport, Al-Ahsa International Airport, and Gurayat Airport. GACA categorizes airports for performance evaluation based on annual passenger numbers, ensuring a transparent approach. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh secured the top spot in the category of airports with more than 15 million passengers annually, with an 82% compliance rate. Following closely behind was King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at 82%. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport tied for first place in the category of international airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers annually, with a 91% compliance rate. King Fahad International Airport followed with an 82% compliance rate. In the 2 to 5 million annual passenger category, Abha International Airport and King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport in Jizan demonstrated a 100% compliance rate. However, Abha International Airport outperformed King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport by surpassing higher targets in the specified evaluation criteria. In the category of less than 2 million passengers annually, Al-Ahsa International Airport achieved a 100% compliance rate, outperforming its competitors regarding average waiting time for departing and arriving flights. Gurayat Airport came first in the domestic airport category, with a 100% compliance rate. It outperformed all competing airports regarding average waiting time for departing and arriving flights. GACA evaluates airport performance through operational performance standards focused on critical passenger touchpoints. These include check-in, security, passport control, customs, baggage claim, and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). These metrics ensure a seamless and efficient travel experience for all passengers and are aligned with international best practices. In support of its airport partners, GACA prepared a booklet containing guidelines on how to deal with traveler complaints. The booklet, which has been circulated among airport operators, sets out service agreements and the rules that must be adhered to for all types of complaints and inquiries. Through regularly held workshops, the authority trains employees of national airlines and ground service companies that deal directly with travelers on how to comply with passenger protection regulations.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued its monthly classification for air transport service providers “to give passengers information about the performance of air transport service providers and airports. The assessment was based on the number of complaints filed with GACA by travelers during August 2024. According to GACA, 1,505 complaints were filed by travelers on Saudi air carriers in August. SAUDIA Airlines had the fewest complaints among airlines, 13 per 100,000 travelers, and a complaint resolution rate of 100%. Flynas was second, with 17 complaints per 100,000 travelers and a resolution rate of 100%. Flyadeal was third with 23 complaints per 100,000 travelers and a resolution rate of 100%. The most common complaints in August were about luggage, flights, and tickets. According to the index, among international airports with more than 6 million passengers annually, King Khalid International Airport had the fewest complaints, at five per 100,000 travelers, and a resolution rate of 100%. Among international airports with less than 6 million passengers annually, Abha International Airport had the fewest complaints, two per 100,000 travelers, and a resolution rate of 100%. Among domestic airports, Bisha Airport had the fewest complaints, one per 100,000 passengers, and a resolution rate of 100%. GACA reiterated that the monthly classification report aims to help passengers make informed choices, promote transparency, demonstrate its credibility and keenness to deal with travelers' complaints, stimulate fair competition, and develop and improve services. According to the authority, it keeps multiple communication channels open around the clock to enable interaction with travelers and airport visitors. They are: Unified Call Center number 1929, WhatsApp service at 0115253333, email: gaca-info@gaca.gov.sa, social-media accounts, and GACA's website. Among the complaints the authority receives through these channels are those concerning boarding passes, employee behavior, and services for persons with disabilities and limited mobility.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is set to host the "Youth Empowerment & Development in Civil Aviation" virtual session as part of the lead-up to the United Nations Future Summit.   This session will take place on September 20, 2024, from 3 to 5 PM.   GACA is collaborating with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for this event.   This session marks GACA's inaugural involvement in a UN-affiliated event and will primarily focus on engaging youth in the civil aviation sector. The session aims to address the significant challenges facing human resources in the aviation industry, foster international cooperation, and explore career development opportunities for the next generation.   The virtual session will bring together representatives from academic, industrial, governmental, and international organizations and young professionals in the aviation sector. They will share experiences and discuss best practices, innovative ideas, and solutions to ensure the sustainable growth of the industry.   This session will serve as a platform to launch new collaborative initiatives aimed at developing a globally competitive and future-ready workforce in the aviation sector. By enabling public participation, the session will provide young people with the opportunity to interact directly with the speakers.   GACA's participation in such events aims to showcase its programs, initiatives, and contributions to creating job opportunities in the air transport industry and empowering Saudi youth. This aligns with GACA's belief in the role of Saudi youth in developing and enhancing the aviation sector, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Aviation Strategy.   The UN Future Summit will take place on September 22 and 23, during the high-level general assembly week. Preparatory work days will precede the September 20 and 21 summit to create additional opportunities for engaging all stakeholders.   Those interested in participating can visit the following website: https://myeservices.gaca.gov.sa/eservices/public/atic/sft/eservice/register?detailsId=3478753

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), commended the themes conveyed in the annual Royal Address marking the opening of the first session of the ninth term of the Shura Council. The address was delivered on behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister—may God protect them both. The address reaffirmed the exceptional phase the Kingdom is experiencing—marked by transformative projects, progress, and development across various sectors. It reflected the nation’s commitment to pioneering initiatives and landmark achievements that solidify Saudi Arabia’s position among the world’s leading nations. All of this is rooted in Vision 2030, which serves as the foundation for transformation, sustainability, and a prosperous future for generations to come. In closing, Al-Duailej prayed for the continued protection of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, and for lasting security and stability for the Kingdom.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), has participated in the 20th meeting of the Executive Committee for Civil Aviation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The Saudi delegation was led by the President of GACA and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej. The meeting was hosted by the State of Qatar, represented by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA), in cooperation with the General Secretariat of the GCC. All member states participated in the meeting, which was held in Doha. In Al-Duailej's address during the meeting, the President of GACA expressed his gratitude to Qatar for its warm hospitality. He highlighted that the meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation among GCC states in civil aviation affairs, which would support the civil aviation industry in the region and unify efforts and stances. The meeting agenda covered cooperation on a unified program for assessing foreign aircraft safety, updates on establishing upper airspace for the GCC, and recommendations for a unified Gulf navigation communications network, including its technical specifications and economic feasibility. Additionally, discussions focused on aviation security culture, training, expertise exchange, and the GCC's achievements in air navigation and aviation.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), represented by the Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability Sector, participated in a workshop on operational safety at the Kingdom’s airports, titled “Knowledge Transfer”, which was held over four days at the headquarters of Matarat Holding Company, with the participation of more than 22 entities from various sectors and companies operating in Saudi airports. The workshop aimed to bring together airport operators to discuss daily operational safety topics and future operational initiatives in accordance with GACA’s aviation safety regulations and international best practices. It also focused on improving operations by enhancing various aspects of the operational ecosystem at airports and applying the highest standards of operational safety, which reflects in providing high-quality services to passengers. GACA’s participation comes as part of its programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of services provided to passengers at the Kingdom’s airports and developing a proposed vision to enhance operational safety standards and services by leveraging technological tools to streamline procedures, reduce processing times, and align with the highest global standards in support of the National Aviation Sector Strategy, which aims to offer world-class services that rival those of the world’s top airports. At the conclusion of the workshop, several outcomes were reached, including: emphasizing collaboration and integration between airports and other operational sectors, enhancing the use of technology to improve air traffic flow and operational processes, and advancing customer experience initiatives across Saudi airports.

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, who also is the Arab Civil Aviation Organization executive council president, has called on civil aviation authorities worldwide to work together to usher in a new era of aviation for the world. During his opening speech at the UN International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Advanced Air Mobility Symposium -- held in Montreal, Canada from September 9 to 12 -- Al-Duailej urged collaborative efforts to exchange knowledge in the sector. He also underscored the importance of addressing relevant challenges and building partnerships to ensure the success of advanced air mobility technologies globally. ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano, representatives from ICAO member states, and global aviation leaders attended the event. At the ICAO symposium, Saudi Arabia was chosen to deliver the opening speech to aviation leaders from over 75 countries due to its pioneering role in international civil aviation, particularly advanced aviation. The selection also solidifies the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s global leadership in the aviation industry, with the nation serving as a gateway to the world and a global hub for trade and tourism, given its strategic location connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. During the forum, the Kingdom highlighted its Advanced Air Mobility roadmap launched in 2024, aligning with the national aviation strategy. The roadmap signifies a comprehensive change based on seven key pillars: adopting technological solutions, developing infrastructure, achieving comprehensive governance, building trust, attracting investments, setting regulations and systems, and empowering human capital. Additionally, the Kingdom shed light on its hosting last May of the third edition of the Future Aviation Forum 2024 under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. That edition of the forum witnessed exceptional successes, including the participation of seven advanced air transport aircraft in the accompanying exhibition, making it the largest gathering of such aircraft types in the world. Furthermore, the Kingdom highlighted its experience in conducting air taxi operations during the previous Hajj season in June through GACA as an example of the role that advanced air mobility can play in various aspects of life. The Kingdom underscored the need for expanding the scope of this technology to enable and assist the millions of pilgrims who visit the holy sites annually. It emphasized unveiling future plans to establish capabilities center by 2028 that focuses on training local talents and attracting top minds and competent individuals globally. During the symposium, the ICAO granted the Global Advanced Air Mobility Academic Paper Competition award to students from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). The accolade underscores the Kingdom's potential in advanced air mobility, successfully integrating and empowering it in line with the Kingdom's ambitious goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2060. This potential also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advanced research and complements its investments in Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft.

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, along with a delegation of officials from GACA, the Ministry of Investment, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, and representatives from local private-sector companies like NEOM and Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI), toured a BETA Technologies Company's factory in South Burlington, Vermont. BETA Technologies specializes in the production of electric aircraft and vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. During the visit, the delegation inspected the production lines for advanced air mobility technologies, the latest infrastructure technologies used by the factory, and the operation of charging stations. They also visited the company's research and development centers, where they learned about the latest technology and enabling technologies used in carbon-free manufacturing and production, as well as the engines that rely on charging cubes, which reduce operating costs and carbon emissions. These include the VTOL aircraft and the fully electric models for vertical and conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL). The GACA delegation's visit is part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to reaffirm its commitment to enabling advanced air mobility technologies and sustainable innovations as outlined in the Advanced Air Mobility Roadmap launched by GACA earlier this year. It also aims to strengthen cooperation and build partnerships with leading companies in the civil aviation sector, explore opportunities for exchanging expertise in the field of advanced air mobility, and pursue the transfer and localization of advanced aviation technologies while enhancing research, development, and innovation cooperation.

September 10, 2024 The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, stated that there is a significant transformation taking place in the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia. This transformation is part of the National Aviation Strategy, which aims to achieve the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of building a prosperous and diversified economy. Al-Duailej made these remarks during Saudi Arabia's participation at the first forum of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Montreal, Canada. The forum, held from September 9 to 12, 2024, was attended by the President of the International Civil Aviation Organization, Salvatore Sciacchitano, as well as representatives from member states of the "ICAO" organization and leaders of the aviation sector worldwide. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia's participation in the forum highlights its leading role in advanced and international civil aviation. Earlier in the year, GACA launched the Advanced Air Mobility Roadmap, which aligns with the National Aviation Strategy. This roadmap outlines comprehensive changes based on seven main pillars: adopting technical solutions, developing infrastructure, achieving comprehensive governance, building trust, attracting investments, setting regulations and systems, and empowering human capital. Al-Duailej also called on civil aviation authorities worldwide to collaborate, address challenges, and build partnerships to ensure the success of advanced air mobility technologies globally. As part of the forum, the ICAO presented the Advanced Air Mobility Global Academic Paper Competition award to students from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). This acknowledgement underscores the Kingdom's capabilities in advanced air mobility and its commitment to integrating and enabling it, which aligns with its ambitious goals to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2060. The Kingdom's investments in electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) were also highlighted as part of its commitment to advanced research. Additionally, the GACA President held separate bilateral meetings with Salvatore Sciacchitano and the President of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Barry Butler, discussing ways to enhance international cooperation in the civil aviation sector.

September 08, 2024 Represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will participate in the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) first Advanced Air Mobility Symposium (AAM 2024), which will be held in Montreal, Canada, from September 9 to 12, 2024, with participation from ICAO member countries and global aviation leaders. The Kingdom's delegation will be headed by President of GACA Abdulaziz Al-Duailej. At the forum, GACA will showcase the national aviation strategy, its achievements, and the Kingdom's commitment to developing the aviation sector using the latest technologies in advanced air mobility. GACA will also explore opportunities for collaboration with global partners. The authority will discuss its efforts in advanced air mobility, focusing on providing safe and sustainable transportation to achieve its goal of eliminating carbon emissions and reaching net zero by 2060. The forum will feature strategic sector programs and initiatives, including the launch of a roadmap for advanced air mobility, which has accelerated the adoption of advanced air mobility technologies in the Kingdom. This includes the development of a new generation of airports, such as the Red Sea International Airport and NEOM Airport. Several successful advanced air mobility trials will be presented, including the first successful electric VTOL flight test in NEOM in June 2023 and the issuance of the world's first flying taxi license following a successful trial during the Hajj season last June. GACA will also highlight its collaboration with ICAO, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure global consistency in advanced air mobility regulations.