GACA Showcases Saudi Arabia's Ambitious Initiatives To Become A Major Hub For International Flights At ICAN 2024

Ali bin Mohammed Rajab, Executive Vice President for Air Transport and International Cooperation at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), has underscored Saudi Arabia's efforts to become a major hub for international flights. He shared these insights during a panel discussion titled "Benefits and Challenges of Liberalizing International Air Transport" at the International Civil Aviation Negotiation Event (ICAN 2024) in Malaysia from October 21 to 25.

Rajab highlighted that Saudi Arabia has made significant progress, with 87% of initiatives under Saudi Vision 2030 already achieved. These initiatives are designed to position the Kingdom as a central hub for global flights. The aviation sector is set to see investment opportunities valued at $100 billion, leveraging private sector resources in line with the National Aviation Strategy.

The aviation sector experienced a remarkable 26% increase in passenger numbers in 2023, reaching 122 million. This growth was driven by new economic regulations that enhance competition, ensure transparency, and attract investment. These measures have significantly contributed to the sector's expansion.

The National Aviation Strategy also aims to expand air cargo capacity from the current 0.8 million tons to 4.5 million tons by 2030. This ambitious target reflects the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing its aviation infrastructure and capabilities.

ICAN 2023, held in Riyadh from December 3 to 7, saw the signing of 521 agreements, memoranda of understanding, and records of discussions. Additionally, there were 579 bilateral meetings and negotiations on air transport services. The event attracted over 100 countries, international organizations, and more than 700 civil aviation experts and specialists.

ICAN 2024 serves as a unique platform for global aviation leaders to engage in bilateral, regional, or multilateral negotiations on air transport services. On its opening day alone, it attracted over 700 delegates and leaders from the global civil aviation sector.

Saudi Arabia's strategic initiatives in the aviation sector are paving the way for it to become a key player on the international stage. With substantial investments and regulatory reforms underway, the Kingdom is poised for continued growth and development in this vital industry.

With inputs from SPA