Crown Prince unveils master plan for new Abha International Airport

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched, today, Oct. 12, the general master plan for the new Abha International Airport, the state-run SPA reported.

The new airport aims to embody a consistent architectural identity that complements the heritage of the Asir region, transforming it into a prominent landmark in the Kingdom. Its terminal area will span 65,000 square meters (sqm), compared to the current 10,500 sqm space.

The first phase is planned to be completed by 2028. This expansion includes the construction of passenger boarding bridges, in addition to new platforms and self-service facilities for streamlined travel procedures and high-capacity parking areas.

The new airport will incorporate sustainable design strategies that will showcase Saudi culture. It will offer a distinctive, highly efficient travel experience, ensuring seamless services for visitors and travelers. Accordingly, the airport's capacity will grow tenfold to accommodate over 13 million passengers annually, from the current 1.5 million capacity.

It will also handle more than 90,000 flights per year, a significant increase from the current 30,000 flights. Additionally, the new airport will feature 20 gates, along with 41 check-in counters with seven new self-service check-in counters.

The new airport is expected to contribute to enhancing the prominence of the Asir region as an attractive tourist destination. It will also fulfill Asir's development strategy and the aviation strategy that aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 by boosting air connectivity to 250 destinations and transporting 330 million passengers.