Saudi Arabia achieves significant air traffic growth between January-June

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced ‘outstanding’ progress in Saudi Arabia’s air traffic performance between 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 percent to a record 62 million and flights increase 12 percent to 446,000, well above pre-pandemic levels. Low-Cost Carriers led this growth, recording 38 percent growth on international routes and 22 percent growth on domestic routes.

Air cargo also achieved historic growth during the first half of the year, rising 41 percent to 606,000 tons. 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.”