RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (April 17, 2024) - The Saudi Arabian air cargo industry is experiencing a significant upswing, according to the latest report from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The report revealed a robust 7% increase in air cargo volumes compared to the previous year, indicating a flourishing and resilient freight sector in the Kingdom.
This positive development comes alongside a broader resurgence in Saudi Arabia's aviation industry. GACA's report highlights a remarkable 26% surge in passenger travel in 2023 compared to 2022. This growth surpasses pre-pandemic levels as well, with passenger numbers exceeding those of 2 019 by 8%.
The report further details a notable rise in flight activity within the Kingdom. In 2023, Saudi Arabian airports witnessed a 16% increase in the number of flights handled compared to the prior year. This translates to roughly 815,000 flights that traversed the Kingdom's airspace.
GACA's data disaggregates these flights into domestic and international journeys. In 2023, there were 394,000 international flights and 421,000 domestic flights that departed from or arrived at Saudi Arabian airports. This growth is likely fueled by the robust performance of the Kingdom's tourism sector. The report indicates that a staggering 61 million international visitors and 51 million domestic passengers traveled through Saudi Arabia's airports in 2023.
King Abdulaziz International Airport emerged as the frontrunner when it comes to flight volume within the Kingdom. The report reveals that this airport managed an impressive 30 flights per hour, solidifying its position as a major air traffic hub.
The flourishing air cargo industry coupled with the resurgence in passenger travel paint a promising picture for Saudi Arabia's aviation sector. This growth is likely driven by a confluence of factors, including increased economic activity, strategic investments in infrastructure development, and the Kingdom's ambitious Vision 2030 plan that prioritizes diversification and economic transformation.