Foreign airlines to fly domestic routes in Saudi from May 1: GACA

Foreign operators of private on-demand flights will be allowed to transport passengers within the Kingdom starting May 1, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) said today, Feb. 4, on its X account.

The authority is working to open new opportunities for the global aviation industry through removing restrictions on charter flight operations in the Kingdom, the state-run SPA reported, citing Imtiaz Al-Manzari, GACA Director of General.

This regulatory decision supports GACA’s roadmap to position the Kingdom as a regional hub for general aviation. It also aligns with an unprecedented infrastructure development program, including the establishment of new airports and terminals across the Kingdom.

Al-Manzari added that lifting domestic air transport restrictions (cabotage) is a significant step in the authority's strategy to enhance competition, attract foreign investments, and provide greater flexibility for general aviation operators.