Air Travel In Saudi Arabia Marks Significant Growth And Development In First Half Of 2024

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) reported a notable rise in air traffic for the first half of 2024. Passenger numbers surged by 17%, totalling around 62 million, compared to 53 million in the same period last year. Flights increased by 12%, reaching approximately 446,000, up from 399,000 flights in the first half of 2023.

In addition to passenger and flight growth, airfreight volume saw a significant boost. The first six months of 2024 recorded a 41% increase in airfreight, with volumes reaching 606,000 tons compared to 430,000 tons during the same period in 2023.

GACA initiated several development projects this year. These include expanding Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport and launching new facilities at Al-Ahsa International Airport. A new international departure terminal was also inaugurated at Taif International Airport.

Moreover, GACA introduced the self-driving air taxi experience during the Hajj season. This innovation marks a significant step towards advanced air mobility solutions in Saudi Arabia.

GACA's commitment to service quality has been recognised with multiple awards. It won two gold awards for Best Customer Service and Best Public Service Center in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Additionally, it received the Consumer Protection Association award for excellence in protecting passengers' rights.

Saudi airports have also achieved notable accolades. Sixteen Saudi airports obtained the Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Service Quality (ASQ) accreditation for 2024. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah was named the best regional airport in the Middle East at the Skytrax World Airport Awards.

Recognition for Saudi Airlines

SAUDIA earned recognition as the most advanced airline globally and for having the best economy-class catering for 2024 according to Skytrax rankings. Flynas was ranked as the fourth-best low-cost airline worldwide for the second consecutive year and first in the Middle East for seven years running.

King Fahd International Airport in Dammam received three Saudi Airports Awards for 2023: best airport in the category of 5-15 million passengers, best customs inspection area, and best services for people with disabilities.

Aviation Sector Achievements

The aviation sector's achievements align with GACA's initiatives under the National Strategy for Civil Aviation. This strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leading aviation hub by increasing passenger numbers to 330 million annually and enhancing air freight capacity to 4.5 million tons by 2030.

Furthermore, GACA launched a knowledge-testing centre for aviation personnel and introduced electronic gates at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. These initiatives aim to improve efficiency and service quality across Saudi airports.

The authority also granted its first operating permit for building cleaning using drones. This move underscores GACA's dedication to integrating innovative technologies within its operations.

Overall, these developments reflect GACA's ongoing efforts to enhance Saudi Arabia's aviation sector locally, regionally, and internationally. The focus remains on improving passenger experience while adopting advanced technologies to meet future demands.

With inputs from SPA