Paris Airshow: GACA and Airbus sign sustainable aviation pact

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and Airbus signed an MoU at Le Bourget that “establishes a framework for collaboration on sustainable aviation initiatives.

This includes knowledge sharing, training, and joint participation in environmental programmes.

Captain Sulaiman Almuhaimidi, executive vice president of Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability at GACA, welcomed this alliance, stated: “Today marks an important step in our commitment to a sustainable future for aviation in the Kingdom.

“Through this collaboration with Airbus, we aim not only to meet the challenges of decarbonising aviation but also to strengthen local capabilities through knowledge sharing and skills development for the next generation to lead by example in shaping a greener, more resilient air transport sector for generations to come.”

Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in Middle East and Africa, said: “This partnership with GACA marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to building a more sustainable future for aviation.

“At Airbus, we are honoured to support the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its ambition for a more environmentally responsible aviation sector through innovative technologies, sustainable aviation solutions, and long-term collaboration,” said Semelas. “Together, we aim to accelerate the decarbonisation of air transport in the region and beyond.”

His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, GACA President, highlighted the importance of attending the Paris Air Show. “We are showcasing Saudi Arabia’s aviation progress and the scale of opportunities available. With our strategic location, modern infrastructure, and ambitious goals, we are positioning the Kingdom as a global connector. Saudi Arabia provides opportunities for global aviation investors, with the Saudi Aviation Strategy unlocking $100 billion in infrastructure projects.”

According to a GACA press statement: “The news coming out of Paris today further reiterates the Saudi Aviation Strategy, which is committed to creating unprecedented growth opportunities, tripling passenger numbers to 330 million and doubling the Kingdom’s connectivity to 250 destinations by 2030.”

That news included orders for Airbus aircraft from lessor Avilease and start-up carrier Riyadh Air.

GACA, along with key national aviation entities including Matarat, Riyadh Air, Saudia Airlines, Flynas, the Saudi Aviation Academy, and the Saudi Industrial Center, are leading the largest ever Saudi delegation to the 2025 Paris Air Show.