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President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz Al-Duailej and Cuba’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Miguel Porto Parga signed an agreement on air transport services between the governments of Saudi Arabia and Cuba today at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The signing took place as part of the official visit of the Cuban prime minister to attend the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference in Riyadh.  The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in the field of air transport services and to promote bilateral relations based on mutual benefit and respect, in accordance with the laws and regulations of both countries. It also seeks to establish regulatory frameworks for air transport.  This step contributes to achieving the objectives of the aviation program, which focuses on building international partnerships and strengthening global relations in civil aviation. It will also enable national carriers to expand their operational networks, enhance the Kingdom’s air connectivity to reach 250 destinations, and help transport 330 million passengers annually by 2030, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) yesterday issued its index classifying air transport service providers and airports, based on the passenger complaints submitted to the authority during September 2025.  GACA reported a total of 2,399 passenger complaints filed against air carriers. The performance rankings, measured by complaints per 100,000 passengers, showed flyadeal leading the field with the fewest complaints—38 per 100,000—while maintaining a 98% timely resolution rate.  flynas followed in second place with 43 complaints per 100,000, notably achieving a 100% on-time resolution rate. Saudia Airlines came in third, registering 54 complaints per 100,000 passengers and holding a 90% timely resolution rate.  Overall, the most frequent complaint categories in September involved flights, followed by baggage services, and then ticketing.  King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh led its category in the GACA index, recording the lowest number of complaints. In the category for international airports serving over six million passengers annually, the airport registered 15 complaints per 100,000 passengers and achieved a 100% on-time resolution rate.  Abha International Airport recorded the lowest number of complaints filed with GACA in the index category for international airports with an annual passenger count of less than six million, registering four complaints per 100,000 passengers and achieving an on-time complaint resolution rate of 100%.  In the category for domestic airports, Sharurah Airport had the lowest number of complaints filed with GACA, with one complaint per 100,000 passengers and an on-time complaint resolution rate of 100%.  GACA stated that the purpose of issuing this monthly index is to provide passengers with information on the performance of service providers and airports in resolving customer issues, enabling travelers to make informed choices. This also enhances transparency, reinforces GACA's credibility, and fosters fair competition for continuous service improvement.  GACA has provided airport operators with a guidelines booklet for handling passenger complaints, specifying service level agreements. The authority also conducts workshops to train employees of national airlines and ground handling companies on adhering to customer rights regulations.  Passengers and visitors can submit feedback 24/7 through multiple communication channels, including the unified call center (1929), the WhatsApp service (0115253333), social media accounts, email, and the official website.

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), received today His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Farah Nouh, Minister of Air Transport and Civil Aviation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. During the meeting, both parties reviewed topics of mutual interest and discussed avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fields of air transport and civil aviation industry development.

His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), chaired today the second meeting of the Committee for the Activation of the Saudi Civil Aviation Environmental Sustainability Program (CAESP), held at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The meeting was attended by committee members representing key stakeholders and relevant government entities. The program aims to provide strategic guidance, oversight, and coordination among aviation stakeholders, while supporting effective implementation. It also focuses on enhancing monitoring practices and tracking progress to ensure continuous improvement in performance indicators, in alignment with the Aviation Sector Strategy and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. In his remarks, Mr. Al-Duailej emphasized that CAESP is a cornerstone initiative in positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in sustainable aviation. He noted that the program has achieved significant and comprehensive progress across its pillars, including the activation of its regulatory framework, enhancement of its execution model, improvement of environmental data collection and analysis, and strengthening of monitoring and compliance mechanisms in line with national and international sustainability standards. He added that the sector has witnessed tangible achievements in recent phases, marking solid steps toward realizing the program’s objectives. These efforts contribute to building a sustainable aviation sector that balances economic growth with environmental preservation, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting the environment for future generations. He also stressed the importance of continued teamwork and collaboration across all entities, particularly in environmental monitoring, verification, and data governance to ensure performance sustainability and output quality. Captain Suleiman bin Saleh Al-Muhaimeed, Executive Vice President for Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability at GACA, highlighted the importance of enhancing competitiveness in the aviation sector through integrated compliance and oversight systems. He affirmed that fostering a culture of commitment begins with top-down leadership, ensuring unified efforts and strategic clarity across all levels. The CAESP program is built on a robust governance framework and a comprehensive, integrated approach. It encompasses seven environmental pillars: greenhouse gas emissions, noise, biodiversity, waste management, air quality, energy and water efficiency, and climate change response. The program includes a range of initiatives, sub-programs, targets, and performance indicators developed specifically for the aviation sector. These are designed to meet national goals and fulfill international commitments within a defined timeline, leveraging enablers from both public and private sectors.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), represented by the committee responsible for reviewing violations of the Civil Aviation Law, has released its report for the third quarter of 2025. The report highlights the issuance of 246 violations, resulting in financial penalties exceeding SAR 4.8 million imposed on entities and individuals who breached the Civil Aviation Law, its executive regulations, and GACA’s official directives. The report revealed that 237 of the violations were issued against air carriers for failing to ensure passengers had the required documents and for violating GACA’s instructions. These fines amounted to over SAR 4.5 million. Additionally, 4 violations were issued to licensed companies and carriers for non-compliance with executive regulations, totaling SAR 260,000 in fines. Furthermore, the committee issued 3 violations against air carriers for failing to submit required data in accordance with GACA’s directives, with total fines reaching SAR 75,000. The report also noted a violation issued to an individual for operating a drone without obtaining prior authorization from GACA, resulting in a fine of SAR 1,000. Another violation was recorded for submitting false information during a flight license renewal application, with a fine of SAR 10,000. GACA emphasized that these actions reflect its commitment to transparency, regulatory oversight, and continuous improvement of the air transport sector. The authority remains dedicated to enhancing passenger experience and elevating the quality of air services across the Kingdom.  

His Excellency the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, chaired today the seventh meeting of the National Committee for Air Transport Facilitation, held at the Authority’s headquarters in Riyadh, with the participation of committee members representing relevant government entities. The meeting aimed to activate the committee’s work, during which several key topics were discussed, including: facilitating travel procedures at air ports, regulations related to aircraft, crew, and passengers, health procedures associated with air transport, and raising awareness among travelers regarding prohibited and hazardous materials. The meeting also included a visual presentation that addressed a number of topics related to streamlining procedures in the air transport sector. In addition, the current activities of the Authority and the committee’s future aspirations were reviewed, contributing to improved flow of movement at airports, development of technologies used to accelerate procedures, and reviewing the implementation of international regulations to support the achievement of the Aviation Program’s objectives.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today issued its air transport service provider and airport classification index for August 2025, which is based on the 2,313 total passenger complaints submitted to the authority during the month.  GACA releases this monthly index to enhance transparency, demonstrate its commitment to addressing passenger complaints, and stimulate fair competition among providers to develop and improve services. The most frequently reported complaint classifications for August were related to flights, followed by baggage services and tickets.  Among air carriers, Saudia Airlines recorded the fewest complaints, with 37 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a timely resolution rate of 98%. Flynas ranked second with 42 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% timely resolution rate, while Flyadeal came in third with 43 complaints per 100,000 passengers and a 100% timely resolution rate.  The index also classified airports based on complaint volume. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah received the lowest number of complaints (24 per 100,000 passengers) among international airports serving over six million passengers annually, achieving a 96% timely resolution rate.  King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan recorded the lowest complaints in the category of international airports with fewer than six million passengers, with two complaints (two per 100,000 passengers) and a 100% resolution rate.  For domestic airports, King Saud Airport in Al-Baha had the fewest complaints (two per 100,000 passengers) with a 100% resolution rate.  To support continuous service improvement, GACA has provided airport operators with a guidelines booklet for handling passenger complaints, specifying service level agreements. The authority also conducts workshops to train employees of national airlines and ground handling companies on adhering to customer rights regulations. Passengers and visitors can submit feedback 24/7 through multiple communication channels, including the unified call center (1929), the WhatsApp service (0115253333), social media, email, and the official website.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), concluded its participation in the 42nd General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), held in Montreal from September 23 to October 3, by signing 17 agreements and memoranda of understanding in the field of air transport. The Kingdom also submitted 31 working and information papers covering innovation, safety, sustainability, security, and passenger experience, and held 40 bilateral meetings to strengthen international cooperation in aviation. During the Assembly, ICAO’s Executive Council renewed Saudi Arabia’s membership for the 2026–2028 term, with the Kingdom receiving 175 out of 184 votes—maintaining its seat since 1986. This reflects Saudi Arabia’s leadership in shaping global civil aviation policy through its initiatives and commitment to international best practices. Leading the high-level Saudi delegation, His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of GACA, announced a generous donation of $1 million from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, in support of ICAO’s “No Country Left Behind” initiative for the 2025–2028 cycle. The initiative aims to assist developing countries in implementing ICAO’s safety and security standards. ICAO also honored the Kingdom, represented by Mr. Mohammed bin Saad Al-Fawzan, Chair of the Cooperative Aviation Security Program – Middle East (CASP-MID), in recognition of his leadership in enhancing aviation security capabilities across the region. The recognition underscores Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in supporting UN aviation programs and international efforts to ensure no country is left behind. Throughout the Assembly, Saudi Arabia signed 17 bilateral agreements and MoUs in air transport and held 40 bilateral meetings, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its global aviation footprint, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and improving safety and security standards—while offering more travel options to passengers. The Kingdom’s 31 submitted papers addressed a wide range of topics aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, including airport infrastructure development, air transport facilitation, environmental sustainability, carbon emissions reduction, and investment in biofuels and clean technologies. On the sidelines of the Assembly, Saudi Arabia hosted a reception attended by over 450 dignitaries, aviation leaders, diplomats, and ICAO member state representatives. The event featured a cultural exhibition showcasing traditional Saudi crafts such as weaving and leatherwork, along with folkloric performances from various regions of the Kingdom. A documentary film was also screened, highlighting the evolution of Saudi civil aviation and the Kingdom’s transformation into a modern aviation hub.

Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), played a prominent role at the 42nd General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), held in Montreal, Canada, from September 23 to October 3.  A high-level delegation, led by Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and GACA Chairman Saleh Al-Jasser, presented 31 working and information papers across key areas, including innovation, safety, security, sustainability, quality, and air transport.  GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej emphasized that these papers align with Saudi Vision 2030's goal of transforming the Kingdom into a global logistics hub. They highlighted safety and security, including efforts to enhance aviation security and address emerging risks from advanced air mobility, such as drones and cyberattacks; sustainability, focusing on reducing carbon emissions, investing in biofuels, and clean technologies; and infrastructure and quality, advocating for airport infrastructure development and integrating the passenger experience into ICAO regulatory frameworks.  The delegation also reaffirmed the Kingdom's ambitious goals under the civil aviation program, aiming to reach 330 million passengers annually by 2030, double the number of international travel destinations to over 250, and increase air cargo capacity to 4.5 million tons annually. Key proposals presented included facilitating humanitarian and relief flights by addressing permit delays and inconsistent fees, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), and developing ICAO guidance materials for accrediting Air Navigation Service Providers to enhance global safety and efficiency.

During the 42nd General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), held from September 23 to October 3 in Montreal, Canada, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed a series of bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding with 17 countries. These agreements reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening its global presence in aviation and air transport, while establishing regulatory frameworks for air traffic, enhancing safety and security standards, and expanding travel options for passengers. The agreements aim to boost bilateral cooperation in air transport, develop regulatory and legislative frameworks for civil aviation, increase international air connectivity, and reinforce aviation safety and security. They also support economic and tourism development between the Kingdom and its partners. Among the signings, H.E. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), signed bilateral air transport agreements with Antigua and Barbuda and South Africa. These agreements are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to develop its air transport system and position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub — a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. As part of the Assembly’s agenda, H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA, signed a memorandum of understanding with the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) to promote technical cooperation in infrastructure operations, modernization, and development. The agreement also includes the exchange of expertise and best practices based on mutual benefit and in accordance with the laws and regulations of Saudi Arabia and AFCAC member states. In his capacity as President of the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, Al-Duailej also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Arab Civil Aviation Organization and AFCAC to enhance regional collaboration and support civil aviation development across both regions. Additionally, Al-Duailej signed operational and cooperative memoranda of understanding and bilateral agreements with Brazil, Algeria, Belarus, Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe, Liberia, Georgia, the Union of the Comoros, and Seychelles. These agreements aim to strengthen strategic partnerships and modernize air transport cooperation in line with the legal and regulatory frameworks of each country. Further agreements were signed with Lithuania, China, Finland, Latvia, and Saint Lucia. Representing GACA in these signings was Ali bin Mohammed Rajab, Executive Vice President for Air Transport and International Cooperation.   These agreements contribute to the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Program, expanding the operational network of national carriers and reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global logistics hub. They also support Saudi Arabia’s ambition to connect with 250 international destinations and transport 330 million passengers annually by 2030 — in line with the objectives of Vision 2030.

Fahd bin Khalid Al-Ghamdi achieved an unprecedented accomplishment, becoming the first Saudi to receive the classification of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in the field of air transport facilitation. This achievement represents Saudi Arabia’s effective international presence and affirms the Kingdom’s global leadership in achieving its ambitious goals to be among the forefront of the world's countries in the aviation sector. Al-Ghamdi was selected by ICAO as one of only 12 international experts, serving as a certified trainer and reference for ICAO Annex 9 – Facilitation. His responsibilities focus on training representatives of member states, providing technical advice to governments, and contributing to the development of international legislation, protocols, and training materials. Additionally, his role involves updating Annex 9 of the Chicago Convention (1944) and supporting states in applying international standards.  Fahd Al-Ghamdi stated that the expertise he gained in the Kingdom, particularly during his tenure as Director-General of Air Transport Facilitation at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), formed the basis for his international success.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) today released its monthly report for August 2025 on the punctuality performance of airports and national carriers, based on flights departing or arriving within 15 minutes of their scheduled time, providing travelers with insight into adherence to flight timetables and helping enhance the overall passenger experience. The report highlights King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, AlUla International Airport, and King Saud bin Abdulaziz Airport in Al-Baha in the top rankings. Airports were divided into five categories based on annual passenger numbers. In the international airports category serving over 15 million passengers, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh achieved an 82% compliance rate. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam led the 5 to 15 million passengers category with 83%, while Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk topped the 2 to 5 million category at 85%. AlUla International Airport stood out in the under 2 million passengers category with an impressive 95% compliance rate. Among domestic airports, King Saud bin Abdulaziz Airport in Al-Baha ranked first with a 98% compliance rate. At the airline level, Saudia Airlines recorded commitment rates of 82% for arrivals and 81% for departures. While flynas achieved 77% for arrivals and 82% for departures, flyadeal performed best in this segment with 83% for arrivals and 87% for departures. The GACA report also highlighted key domestic and international routes, noting that the domestic Tabuk–Riyadh flight and the international Riyadh–Amman route each demonstrated a 92% compliance rate.  These efforts align with the National Aviation Strategy, which aims to strengthen the Kingdom's position as a leading regional aviation hub by improving operational standards, boosting efficiency, and elevating service quality for travelers.    

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia secured 175 votes out of 184 countries in the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for the 2026-2028 term during the 42nd ICAO General Assembly held in Montreal, Canada, maintaining its membership since 1986.  This reflects the Kingdom's leading role in shaping global civil aviation decisions through its initiatives and in implementing the highest international standards.  The Kingdom was re-elected to the ICAO Council during the voting process in which 184 UN member states participated. With this victory, the Kingdom will continue its active presence on the council for the 2026–2028 term.  The ICAO Council comprises 36 countries, including leading aviation powers such as the US, France, Singapore, and the UK. This reflects the Kingdom’s international standing and influence in this vital sector, while enabling it to continue its global role and affirm its presence as an influential voice in shaping civil aviation policies and directions across all levels.  On this occasion, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Saleh Al-Jasser highlighted the significance of this election for the Kingdom. He noted that since the establishment of the first airline in the Kingdom in 1945, the Kingdom has demonstrated its commitment and tireless efforts in the aviation sector at both the national and international levels.  

Maryam Akram became the first Saudi woman to represent her country at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada, where Saudi Arabia has been a member of the ICAO Council since 1962. This achievement reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to harnessing national capabilities, fulfilling the aspirations of its people, and empowering its youth to take on vital roles in major international organizations such as ICAO. Akram shared insights into her professional journey, which began with experience abroad before she joined the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia. Over the course of five years, she worked in various areas of international cooperation, starting with international relations and progressing to managing agreements. She was eventually appointed Director of the Department of International Organizations and ICAO Affairs.  She added that her experience at GACA strengthened her conviction about the importance of an effective Saudi presence in international organizations, which motivated her to transition to ICAO in 2024, where she was seconded by the Kingdom to serve in the Legal Affairs and International Relations Office.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) honored the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by Cooperative Aviation Security Program – Middle East (CASP-MID) Chair Mohammed Alfozan, during the 42nd session of the ICAO Assembly held in Montreal, Canada, from September 23 to October 3, attended by Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Saleh Al-Jasser and GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej.  The Kingdom was honored for the significant efforts in managing CASP-MID and enhancing regional capabilities in aviation security, underscoring Saudi Arabia's pioneering role in supporting UN programs and international initiatives to strengthen civil aviation security and assist member states to ensure "No Country Left Behind."  Since its hosting in the Kingdom, the CASP-MID collaborative program has achieved remarkable success, with its activities growing by over 300%. It has trained 2,600 trainees, implemented over 120 specialized activities, and provided services to 12 regional countries.