Saudi Arabia's GACA Advances Aviation Sector Partnerships and Approvals

Saudi Arabia's GACA Advances Aviation Sector Partnerships and Approvals

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced a series of developments in the aviation sector, including new memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with European air navigation organizations and an economic licence issued for air cargo handling at AlUla International Airport.

The agreements were formalized during the 21st meeting of the Aviation Program Activation Steering Committee, chaired by GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, with participation from sector officials and representatives.

Development of Logistics and International Cooperation

During the meeting, GACA granted SAL Logistics Services an economic licence enabling it to provide air cargo handling services at AlUla International Airport, supporting the expansion of the airport’s logistics infrastructure.

Furthermore, Saudi Air Navigation Services signed MoUs with European organizations EUROCONTROL and DFS Aviation Services, strengthening international cooperation in air traffic management.

Additional Sector Collaborations and Sector Performance Review

In addition, a separate MoU was signed between Cluster2 Airports Company and Prince Sultan Aviation Academy, enhancing collaboration within domestic aviation initiatives.

The committee reviewed sector performance metrics for the first half of 2026, as well as ongoing projects aimed at achieving development targets, including airport infrastructure and digital transformation efforts.

The meeting also reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s status as a member of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization’s Executive Council for 2026–2028 and discussed challenges along with measures to accelerate project delivery.

Overall, these initiatives mark strategic steps toward elevating Saudi Arabia’s aviation capabilities and infrastructure development.