GACA Opens Doors for Foreign Charter Operators in Saudi Arabia
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced a significant policy change for domestic air travel, permitting foreign private aviation firms to operate domestic charter flights within Saudi Arabia. Effective January 5, 2025, international operators meeting GACA's criteria may now apply for licenses, dismantling decades-old cabotage restrictions. The authority aims to promote competitive practices in the domestic aviation market. Boosting Competition and Investment
GACA's Executive Vice President for Strategy, Eng. Mohammed Al-Khuraisi, emphasized this reform aligns with the General Aviation Roadmap launched in May 2024. The roadmap targets a tenfold GDP increase for the sector, aiming for $2 billion by 2030 while creating 35,000 jobs. By opening domestic routes to global players, GACA seeks to enhance market flexibility, attract foreign capital, and position Saudi Arabia as a leading aviation hub.
To support this vision, GACA plans to build six dedicated general aviation airports and nine private passenger terminals. Jubail Airport will join this network, part of a broader infrastructure overhaul to streamline private jet services. The private aircraft sector recorded a 24% growth in 2024, reaching over 23,600 total flights and significant domestic increases, with Riyadh's King Khalid Airport and Jeddah's King Abdulaziz Airport leading growth at 22% and 30%, respectively. Domestic flights for private jets surged by 26%, driving improved connectivity and energizing the kingdom's overall aviation ecosystem remarkably. Aligning with Vision 2030
The policy shift hastens Saudi Arabia's $100 billion aviation investment, privatizing Abha and Taif airports while expanding cargo logistics capabilities. GACA's General Manager for Aviation, Imtiyaz Manzary, said reform will optimize empty-leg flights and boost Saudi connectivity for business, tourism.
The Kingdom's aviation sector is soaring with domestic private flights rising. By fostering competition and global partnerships, GACA ensures Saudi skies remain dynamic, innovative, and pivotal to regional economic transformation.
GACA's bold initiatives empower domestic travelers and revolutionize the kingdom's aviation landscape with dynamic growth and sustainable innovation remarkably fast.
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