Saudi GACA Concludes Successful Tour At Farnborough International Airshow 2024 In UK

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia concluded its participation in several events in the United Kingdom. These events were held alongside the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, which took place from July 22 to 26 at Farnborough Airport.

During the airshow, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA, reviewed investment opportunities enabled by the National Aviation Strategy. He assessed developments led by GACA aimed at fostering growth and innovation in the aviation industry. The delegation explored modern technologies offered by participating companies in civil aviation.

GACA held a roundtable meeting with the Saudi-British Business Council to discuss investment and cooperation opportunities in civil aviation. The meeting focused on enhancing investment relations between Saudi Arabia and the UK. It also addressed efforts to develop economic ties and enable high-quality investments benefiting both countries' private sectors.

On the sidelines of the exhibition, GACA signed a memorandum of cooperation with Lilium, a German company known for manufacturing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. This agreement aims to contribute to developing a regulatory framework for advanced air mobility in Saudi Arabia. The memorandum aligns with GACA's efforts to establish regulations that encourage growth while ensuring safety and security.

The delegation visited Cranfield University in Britain, where they were briefed on aviation science research. They explored the latest technologies offered by Cranfield's digital air traffic control centre. This visit highlighted advancements in aviation sciences and potential collaborative opportunities.

The Saudi Air Navigation Services Company (SANS) signed a framework agreement with NATS, the British Air Traffic Control Company, to enhance airport capacity. Additionally, SANS signed a memorandum of understanding involving the Saudi Academy of Civil Aviation, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz University, and Cranfield University. This agreement aims to develop aviation science research and facilitate expertise exchange between specialists.

Aircraft Purchase Agreements

flynas, Saudi Arabia's leading low-cost air carrier, signed an agreement with Airbus to purchase 160 new aircraft. This includes 30 wide-body A330neo aircraft and 130 single-aisle aircraft from the A320 family. This purchase brings flynas' total aircraft orders to 280 within seven years.

Throughout their visit to the exhibition, Al-Duailej and his delegation were briefed on innovations in advanced air mobility, space technology, and sustainability within the aviation industry. They examined modern technologies showcased by participating companies.

This series of agreements and visits underscores GACA's commitment to fostering international cooperation and technological advancement in civil aviation. By engaging with global leaders and institutions, GACA aims to drive growth and innovation within Saudi Arabia's aviation sector.

With inputs from SPA