News

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.

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.  

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.

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.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today issued its monthly report on the performance of the Kingdom's domestic and international airports for March 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 Jazan, Al-Ahsa 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 73% compliance. In the second category for international airports with 5 to 15 million annual passengers, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam secured first place with 91% compliance, while Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah recorded 82% compliance. In the third category for international airports with 2 to 5 million annual passengers, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jazan ranked first with 100% compliance, followed by Abha International Airport with 100% compliance, with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jazan outperforming Abha International Airport in meeting performance standards. In the fourth category, for international airports with fewer than two million passengers annually, Al-Ahsa International Airport secured first place with 100% compliance, outperforming all competitors in average waiting times for arriving and departing flights. In the fifth category for domestic airports, Al-Qurayyat Airport secured first place with 100% compliance, outperforming all competitors in average waiting times for arriving and departing flights. GACA evaluates airport performance based on 11 key indicators, including passenger wait times at check-in, baggage claim, passport control and customs, as well as standards for travelers with disabilities. The criteria are designed to align with global best practices.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) concluded its participation in the UN International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Facilitation Conference (FALC 2025), which took place April 14 to 17 in Doha, Qatar. The conference, titled "Facilitating the Future of Air Transport: Cooperation, Efficiency, and Inclusiveness," was organized by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority in collaboration with ICAO. It saw participation from 190 countries, along with over 120 transport ministers and heads of civil aviation authorities from across the world. GACA’s involvement aligns with the goal of strengthening international collaboration and advancing regulations related to air transport. This includes fostering innovation, sharing ideas, deliberating on the future of air transport facilities, and examining the most recent advancements in air transport facilitation.

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 has chaired the fifth meeting of regional civil aviation organizations.  The meeting was held in conjunction with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Global Conference, taking place from April 14 to 17, 2025, in the Qatari capital, Doha, with the participation of senior officials from the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO), the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), and the Latin American Civil Aviation Commission (LACAC).  The meeting discussed ways to enhance cooperation among regional civil aviation organizations and reviewed joint coordination efforts. It also addressed key priorities in preparation for the 42nd General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and reaffirmed the strong commitment of regional aviation organizations to deepening cooperation and ensuring a unified approach toward the safe and sustainable development of global air transport.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), on Tuesday signed a number of air transport service agreements as part of its efforts to enhance regional and international cooperation in the civil aviation sector.  The signing took place during GACA's participation in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Facilitation Conference (FALC 2025), held in Doha, Qatar, from April 14 to 17. These agreements involved the Republic of Liberia, Grenada, the State of Samoa, the Republic of Fiji, and the Republic of Ecuador.  The agreements will regulate air transport, enhance civil aviation safety and security standards, and expand travel options.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), led by President His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, is participating in ICAO's FALC 2025 conference in Doha, which runs from April 14 to 17. Hosted by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) under the banner 'Facilitating the Future of Air Transport: Collaboration, Efficiency, and Inclusivity,' the event gathers 190 national delegations, including over 120 transport ministers and aviation leaders from across the world. GACA's participation aims to strengthen international cooperation, improve air transport systems, foster innovation, exchange ideas on the future of air transport facilitation, and explore the latest developments in the civil aviation sector. FALC 2025 brings together nations, stakeholders, and aviation experts to explore the latest advancements in air transport facilitation and collaborate on a global strategy that enhances adaptability to rapid changes in civil aviation sector. Discussions at the conference address critical issues aimed at improving air transport facilitation, notably cooperation and coordination between relevant authorities, travel document security, border control, cargo clearance procedures, and automation. Additional dialogue sessions focus on the role of air transport facilitation in driving aviation industry growth and innovative approaches for sustainable development in civil aviation. Alongside the conference, a specialized exhibition showcases the accomplishments of participating countries and entities in the air transport facilitation and highlights equipment and systems improving the passenger experience. The conference will conclude with a ministerial announcement on aviation facilitation, aimed at enhancing air transport services by ensuring reliable and seamless aviation services for all. This announcement also seeks to guide public policy on critical facilitation matters, supporting ICAO’s strategic objectives related to aviation security and facilitation.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today announced the launch of a public tender to obtain a National Non-Scheduled (Charter) Air Carrier License. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of services provided to passengers, increase competitiveness, and support the Kingdom's National Aviation Sector Strategy's goals, which aims to serve 330 million passengers and reach over 250 international destinations by the year 2030. GACA invites interested parties to apply for the license by sending an official request to (CHRFP@gaca.gov.sa) to obtain the tender document, including applicant details and contact information. Submissions are open from the date of this announcement, with a deadline of Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) Wednesday in the field of civil aviation between the governments of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait.  The Kuwaiti side was represented by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Head Sheikh Humoud Mubarak Humoud Al-Sabah, in the presence of Saudi Ambassador to Kuwait Prince Sultan bin Saad bin Khaled, on the sidelines of an official visit to the State of Kuwait.  The MoU aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the field of civil aviation. It covers areas of technical, administrative, regulatory, operational, and technological collaboration, in addition to enhancing aviation safety and security.  In the same context, a bilateral meeting was held during the signing ceremony to discuss issues of mutual interest and ways to enhance cooperation in the field of civil aviation.  The visit comes as part of efforts to expand international cooperation and exchange knowledge and expertise in the civil aviation industry, in support of Saudi Vision 2030 to strengthen its position as a global hub for aviation and air transport.

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), today met with Mr. Ng Tee Chiou, Deputy Director General of Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), at GACA’s Riyadh headquarters. The two officials discussed matters of mutual interest and explored potential collaboration in the civil aviation sector.

The Seventh Meeting of the Aerodrome Safety, Planning and Implementation Group (ASPIG/7) kicked off today in Riyadh and will continue until April 10. The event is organized by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Regional Office in Cairo, and with the participation of representatives from the member states of the office, along with representatives from international organizations such as the Airports Council International (ACI), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA).  In his opening remarks, GACA Executive Vice President for Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability Captain Sulaiman Almuhaimedi welcomed the participants and expressed his hope that the meeting would result in sharing the best experiences and practices in air navigation and civil aviation safety. He stressed the importance of leveraging expertise and personnel, establishing the highest levels of aviation safety, and raising awareness of the latest developments related to the Air Navigation and Aviation Safety Group.  Almuhaimedi noted that the Kingdom is undergoing a remarkable transformation in the civil aviation sector, which plays a central role in its future vision and is an integral part of the National Aviation Strategy. He said Saudi Arabia's investments go beyond building world-class infrastructure to include systems, personnel, and partnerships that form the foundation of a safe, sustainable, and globally connected aviation sector.  The five-day meeting aims to discuss the technical aspects of airport operations, develop airport safety policies and standards, exchange expertise, analyze challenges, and explore available opportunities. Hosting this event highlights the Kingdom's prominent and active role through GACA in boosting aviation safety standards and ensuring sustainability at the regional and international levels.

In the presence of Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, President of GACA Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej today handed over the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Chief Executive Officer of Riyadh Air Tony Douglas, officially authorizing the new national carrier to commence scheduled flights to and from airports across the Kingdom.  The issuance of the certificate follows Riyadh Air's successful fulfillment of all regulatory and operational requirements in accordance with the executive regulations of the Civil Aviation Law, particularly those related to safety, security, and operational quality standards.  This milestone reflects GACA's commitment to upholding world-class regulatory practices. The updated AOC marks a significant step toward enhancing the passenger experience and maintaining the highest aviation safety standards. It also supports GACA's broader efforts to create an attractive investment environment and to foster the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector, in line with the goals of the National Aviation Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030.  Minister Al-Jasser emphasized that the issuance of the AOC to Riyadh Air represents a foundational pillar of the Kingdom's aviation strategy, which aims to position Saudi Arabia as the Middle East’s leading aviation hub by 2030. The strategy includes transforming the Kingdom into a global logistics hub connecting three continents, supporting tourism objectives, and establishing Riyadh as a global gateway and central hub for transportation, trade, and tourism.  Riyadh Air plans to operate flights to over 100 international destinations by 2030. The airline has placed orders for more than 132 aircraft and is expected to generate over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs in the aviation sector, contributing an estimated SAR75 billion to the Kingdom's non-oil GDP.  

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), extended his congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, as well as to the Saudi people, on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. His Excellency noted that the dedication of the Kingdom’s leadership to serving pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques is seen in the coordinated efforts to streamline services at Saudi airports during the peak Umrah season. Institutional support for Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector has driven significant operational improvements and upgrading of nationwide airport facilities. Through public-private collaboration, this dynamic sector offers premium services to travelers and pilgrims while fulfilling the National Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030 goals. Al-Duailej drew attention to the notable increase in air passenger numbers during the peak Umrah season. The broad ecosystem of the Kingdom’s civil aviation sector enables smooth arrivals and departures via advanced technologies including self-service passenger processing, which reduce delays while integrating airport systems with other transportation modes. His Excellency affirmed that operational teams have worked round the clock at maximum readiness, to ensure a seamless travel experience. Concluding his message, Al-Duailej prayed that Almighty God would accept everyone’s fasting and prayers and to bless the Kingdom, its leadership, and its people with prosperity, grace, and abundance on the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr.