The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced a significant growth in passenger numbers, flights, air cargo, and connectivity, while outlining the outstanding progress in Saudi Arabia’s air traffic performance during January-June 2024.

As a result of the measures being implemented through the Saudi Aviation Strategy, the kingdom saw the number of passengers rise 17% to a record 62 million and flights increase 12% to 446,000, well above pre-pandemic levels.

Low-cost carriers led this growth, recording 38% growth on international routes and 22% growth on domestic routes.

Air cargo also achieved historic growth during the first half of the year, rising 41% to 606,000 tonnes. In addition, Saudi Arabia’s air connectivity expanded to reach 163 destinations, a 23% increase on 2023.

GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej said: “The kingdom’s continued growth in air traffic performance is a testament to the strategic vision reflected in the Saudi Aviation Strategy, positioning the kingdom to lead in the Middle East.

“Saudi Arabia is now more connected to the world than ever before, delivering record numbers of passengers, flights, air cargo and connectivity during the first half of 2024.

“Saudi Arabia is creating unprecedented opportunities for global aviation and the private sector.

“The Aseer region is a shining example of aviation’s role in enabling tourism and economic growth across the kingdom, with more than 100 companies bidding to participate in the Abha Airport Public-Private Partnership project to expand capacity from 1.5 million to 13 million passengers.”

The figures were announced at the 13th Saudi Aviation Strategy Steering Committee meeting, held in the Aseer Province near Abha. – TradeArabia News Service