The operational performance of the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia has been thriving according to Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). During the 13th meeting of the Steering Committee to Activate the National Strategy for the Aviation Sector, Al-Duailej highlighted the success of the sector, with a 17% increase in the number of passengers and a 12% increase in the number of flights in the first half of 2024. Additionally, there was a 41% increase in the volume of air freight, reaching 606,000 tons by the end of June. These impressive numbers reflect the growth and strength of the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia.
Abha International Airport in the Asir region has played a significant role in this success, with a 12% growth rate in the number of passengers and a 3% increase in the number of flights compared to the same period last year. This growth contributes to establishing the Asir region as an attractive global destination. The national strategies, including the Asir Strategy “Qimam and Shaim” and the National Aviation Strategy, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 have been instrumental in achieving these objectives. The National Tourism Strategy aims to increase Abha Airport’s capacity from 1.5 million to 13 million passengers, attracting interest from more than 100 companies willing to participate in the project.
During the Hajj season of 1445, the General Authority of Civil Aviation played a crucial role in ensuring safe and smooth passage for pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia by air. With air passengers representing 97% of the total number of pilgrims to the Holy Kaaba, the sector has been pivotal in facilitating this important religious journey. The authority also oversaw the implementation of the first air taxi experiment in Makkah, along with granting the first license for this type of vehicle in the world. Additionally, the authority granted the first operational permit to clean building facades using drones, showcasing innovation and modernization in the aviation sector.
The meeting also discussed the progress in activating the national strategy for the aviation sector, focusing on implementing the recommendations of the 12th meeting of the Steering Committee and achievements of national companies and carriers operating in Saudi airports. The national strategy aims to double the capacity, reaching over 330 million passengers annually and expanding to more than 250 destinations worldwide by 2030. The cargo capacity is also expected to increase to 4.5 million tons, reflecting the ambitious goals set for the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia.
Overall, the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia has shown significant growth and success, with record numbers of passengers, flights, and air freight. The continued efforts of the General Authority of Civil Aviation and the alignment with national strategies like Saudi Vision 2030 have been instrumental in achieving these milestones. The Asir region, particularly Abha International Airport, has played a key role in establishing itself as an attractive global destination. Innovation, modernization, and strategic planning are driving the sector forward, with a focus on doubling capacity and expanding reach to meet the demands of the future.
