GACA Reports On Airport Performance In Saudi Arabia For September 2024

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has released its September report evaluating the performance of Saudi Arabia's domestic and international airports. The assessment is based on 11 operational standards, aiming to enhance services and ensure a smooth traveller experience. This evaluation aligns with strategic objectives to improve airport services across the Kingdom.

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was ranked highest among airports handling over 15 million passengers annually, achieving an 82% compliance rate. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah followed with a 73% compliance rate. These rankings reflect the airports' commitment to maintaining high service standards.

GACA categorises airports for performance evaluation based on annual passenger numbers, ensuring transparency in the process. In the category for airports serving between 5 and 15 million passengers annually, King Fahd International Airport and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah both achieved a 91% compliance rate, sharing the top spot.

For airports with annual passenger numbers ranging from 2 to 5 million, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport in Jizan and Abha International Airport both reached a perfect compliance rate of 100%. However, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport surpassed Abha International by meeting higher targets within the evaluation criteria.

In the category for airports handling fewer than 2 million passengers annually, Al-Ahsa International Airport achieved a perfect compliance rate of 100%. It excelled particularly in reducing average waiting times for both departing and arriving flights. Gurayat Airport also topped its category as a domestic airport with a similar perfect score, outperforming competitors in managing waiting times efficiently.

The evaluation by GACA focuses on key operational performance standards that are crucial for passenger satisfaction. These include areas such as check-in procedures, security checks, passport control, customs processes, baggage claim efficiency, and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). These metrics are designed to ensure an efficient travel experience that aligns with international best practices.

This comprehensive assessment highlights the ongoing efforts by Saudi Arabian airports to provide exceptional service quality. By adhering to these rigorous standards, they aim to deliver seamless travel experiences for all passengers passing through their facilities.

With inputs from SPA