GACA Removes Cabotage Restrictions For International Charter Operators In Saudi Arabia's Domestic Aviation Market

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced a significant policy change, opening Saudi Arabia's domestic private aviation market to international operators. This move involves lifting cabotage restrictions on foreign charter flights within the Kingdom. Effective immediately, foreign charter companies can apply for permission to operate domestic flights, provided they meet specific GACA requirements.

According to Imtiyaz Manzary, GACA's General Manager for General Aviation, "GACA is unlocking new opportunities for the global aviation industry, by removing restrictions on charter flight businesses to operate domestically in the Kingdom." He further explained that this regulatory shift is part of GACA’s broader strategy to position Saudi Arabia as a hub for general aviation.

The removal of these restrictions is a crucial element of GACA’s strategy aimed at boosting competition and attracting foreign investment in the general aviation sector. The initiative also seeks to provide operators with more flexibility. This change aligns with GACA's roadmap introduced during the Future Aviation Forum in May 2024.

The roadmap includes an ambitious transformation program designed to develop the general aviation sector into a $2 billion industry by 2030. It aims to create 35,000 jobs and enhance infrastructure planning and regulations across the sector. The plan outlines the establishment of six dedicated business aviation airports and nine business aviation terminals.

In addition to new airports and terminals, the roadmap will expand business aviation Fixed-Base Operators and increase Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul capacity for business jets. These developments are expected to significantly bolster Saudi Arabia’s position in the global aviation market.

The business jet sector in Saudi Arabia experienced substantial growth in 2024. Flight volumes surged by 24%, reaching 23,612 flights. Domestic jet flights saw a 26% increase to 9,206 flights, while international jet flights rose by 15% to 14,406 flights.

This strategic decision by GACA not only enhances competition but also supports an unprecedented infrastructure program aimed at establishing new private airports and terminals throughout the Kingdom. By doing so, it sets the stage for Saudi Arabia to become a central player in global general aviation.

With inputs from SPA