Saudi Arabia grants AirX Charter a license to operate private flights domestically
In a strategic move reflecting the rapid development of the air transport sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced the granting of a permit to a foreign operator, AirX Charter, to operate on-demand private flights within Saudi airspace. This permit was issued under Part 129 of the Executive Regulations for Aviation Safety (FOA), after the company completed all necessary procedures and met the stringent regulatory and air safety standards in force in the Kingdom.
Dimensions of the decision and its organizational importance
This decision represents a significant step forward in regulating the general aviation market in Saudi Arabia, opening the door for international operators to enter the local market under specific regulations that guarantee the highest standards of safety and quality. Part 129 of the executive regulations outlines the precise standards that foreign operators must adhere to when operating within Saudi airspace, underscoring the authority's commitment to maintaining rigorous safety standards while simultaneously liberalizing the market and fostering competition.
Context of Vision 2030 and the National Aviation Strategy
This news cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader context of Saudi Vision 2030 , specifically the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. The Kingdom aims to transform its aviation sector into a global hub connecting three continents, with ambitious targets including reaching 330 million passengers annually and increasing the number of international destinations to 250 by 2030. Developing the private or general aviation sector is an integral part of this vision, contributing to attracting foreign investment and strengthening the Kingdom's position as a leading logistics and economic center in the Middle East.
Economic impact and boosting business tourism
This decision is expected to have a positive impact on the business and investment environment in the Kingdom. Providing flexible operational options, such as on-demand flights, addresses a growing need among businesspeople, VIPs, and investors whose schedules require highly flexible travel between the Kingdom's far-flung cities. Furthermore, the entry of global companies like AirX Charter will enhance market competitiveness, inevitably leading to improved service quality and a wider range of pricing and service options for users. This will also support the luxury tourism sector, which the Kingdom is prioritizing in its new projects.
In conclusion, this step confirms the General Authority of Civil Aviation’s commitment to moving forward with privatization programs and partnerships with the global private sector, ensuring the sector’s sustainability and growth in accordance with best international practices.
