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Saudi Vision 2030 elevates kingdom’s global position in aviation

Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector has experienced unprecedented growth and transformation under the framework of Vision 2030
 

Saudi Vision 2030 shaping the country's position in global aviation

Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector has experienced unprecedented growth and transformation under the framework of Vision 2030, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)’s 2024 Annual Report.

GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej praised the "remarkable progress" achieved over the past nine years, noting that 93% of Vision 2030’s targets have already been met. He highlighted the civil aviation sector’s evolution into a competitive global player, thanks to the continued support of the Kingdom’s leadership.

“Vision 2030 has positioned Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub, enhancing its regional and international standing,” said Al-Duailej.

 

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Key Achievements in 2024:

  • Passenger Growth: Over 128 million travelers passed through Saudi airports.
  • Flight Volume: Flights exceeded 905,000.
  • Air Cargo: Handled more than 1.2 million tons.
  • Global Ranking: Saudi Arabia now ranks 17th globally in IATA’s Air Connectivity Index, surpassing its 2024 target.

Saudi airports and national carriers also earned top placements in various global performance metrics, reinforcing the Kingdom’s reputation for aviation excellence.

Workforce Development and Inclusion

The "Localisation of Aviation Jobs" initiative exceeded expectations, employing 14,317 Saudi nationals—124% of the 2025 target—with a focus on leadership and technical roles across airlines, airports, and ground services. Female representation in leadership rose to 17%, signaling significant progress in gender inclusion.

 

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Innovation and Infrastructure Expansion

GACA launched a trial air taxi service during the 1445 AH Hajj season and licensed several emerging aviation technologies. Major infrastructure projects advanced across the Kingdom, including:

  • Privatization of airports and transfer to Airports Holding Company
  • Master plans unveiled for King Salman International Airport and the new Abha International Airport
  • Launch of Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s first of its kind
  • Expansion of Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Madinah), and new terminals at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and Taif International Airport
  • Upgrades at Qassim, Al-Ahsa, NEOM Bay, Red Sea, Arar, and Al Qaisumah airports

 

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Strategic Growth: Riyadh Air and Aircraft Orders

Saudi Arabia also marked the launch of Riyadh Air, the Kingdom’s new national carrier, and signed purchase agreements for 548 aircraft, signaling long-term investment in global connectivity and fleet expansion.

“Since the launch of the National Aviation Strategy, the Kingdom has witnessed rapid and strategic progress across every facet of the civil aviation sector,” Al-Duailej concluded.

These milestones reflect the Kingdom’s broader goal under Vision 2030 to become a global logistics and transport hub, while fostering innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification.

Source: Times Aerospace

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