Over SAR5.3 Million In Fines Levied By GACA For Aviation Law Breaches In Early 2024

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has made public a report detailing enforcement actions for the first quarter of 2024, revealing fines totalling over SAR5.3 million against various entities and individuals for violations of laws, executive regulations, and directives. This announcement underscores GACA's rigorous approach to maintaining legal compliance within Saudi Arabia's aviation sector.

According to the report, a total of 185 citations were issued by the committee responsible for reviewing breaches of the Civil Aviation Law. Air carriers emerged as the primary violators, with 111 infractions leading to fines surpassing SAR3.6 million. Furthermore, 31 violations were recorded against air carriers for failing to comply with executive regulations designed to protect passenger rights, incurring penalties over SAR1.3 million.

Individuals were not exempt from scrutiny, with 38 violations noted for various offences including unauthorized entry into restricted zones, incidents on board aircraft, and illegal drone usage. Notably, one individual was fined for operating a lightweight aircraft without the necessary authorization, contributing to a total of SAR252,700 in fines levied against individuals.

GACA's report highlights its dedication to transparency and accountability in its enforcement practices. The authority reaffirms its commitment to its regulatory and supervisory roles, aiming to enhance passenger experiences and the overall quality of air transport services in the Kingdom.

This initiative is part of GACA's broader efforts to ensure safety and compliance within the aviation industry, reflecting its proactive stance in safeguarding the interests of passengers and upholding high standards of operation among carriers.

With inputs from SPA