GACA Evaluates Saudi Airports, King Abdulaziz Tops July Report

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has published its July report on the performance of Saudi Arabia's airports, both domestic and international. The evaluation is based on 11 operational performance standards that align with strategic objectives to enhance services and ensure a seamless traveller experience.

King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah secured the top spot among airports handling more than 15 million passengers annually, achieving an 82% compliance rate. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh followed closely with the same compliance rate but was outperformed by King Abdulaziz International Airport in meeting the standards.

In the category of international airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers annually, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah ranked first with a 91% compliance rate. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam also achieved a 91% compliance rate but was outperformed by Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in terms of meeting the standards.

Abha International Airport topped the list for airports handling between 2 to 5 million passengers annually, boasting a perfect compliance rate of 100%. King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport in Jizan also achieved a 100% compliance rate but was outperformed by Abha International Airport in meeting the standards.

Qaisumah International Airport led the category for airports with less than 2 million passengers annually, achieving a perfect compliance rate of 100%. It surpassed its competitors in average waiting times for departing and arriving flights.

Domestic Airports' Achievements

Qurayyat Airport excelled in the fifth category of domestic airports, securing a top spot with a perfect compliance rate of 100%. It outperformed all other airports regarding average waiting times for departing and arriving flights.

Evaluation Criteria

GACA categorises airports into five groups based on annual passenger numbers to ensure transparency. The performance assessment includes key indicators such as passenger waiting times at check-in counters, time spent at baggage carousels, passport control, customs areas, and standards for people with disabilities. These standards are based on international best practices.

The report highly ranked King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, Abha International Airport, Qaisumah International Airport, and Qurayyat Airport. These rankings reflect their adherence to GACA's operational performance standards.

This comprehensive evaluation aims to enhance service quality across Saudi Arabia's airports. By adhering to these stringent criteria, GACA ensures that travellers experience efficient and high-quality services at all times.

With inputs from SPA