GACA working to restructure governance, aviation sector’s operational model

Logo of the General Authority for Civil Aviation

Work is underway to restructure the governance and operational model of the aviation sector, with the aim to separate the legislative from the operational aspect through privatization of airports as directed by the royal order, Al-Eqtisadiah reported, citing Ibrahem Alrwosa, Spokesman for General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA).

This will be achieved by establishing private companies to operate and develop airports, such as Riyadh Airports Co. and Dammam Airports Co., Alrwosa said.

Following the establishment of Jeddah Airports Co., in anticipation of the privatization of the airport, work is ongoing to transfer all operational activities, he said, adding that details will be announced later.

According to data compiled by Argaam, Saudi Arabia’s national strategy for transport and logistics, launched in June by the Crown Prince, aims to boost the capacity of local airports to over 330 million passengers annually, raise shipping volume to 4.5 million tons by 2030, and increase international destinations to more than 250.

The strategy also includes privatization of the Kingdom’s airports and creating a new national carrier.