Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is reaching new heights, driven by the rapid expansion of Saudia, Flynas, and Flyadeal, which collectively transported one hundred twenty eight million passengers last year. This unprecedented surge marks a 15% increase from 2023 and a 25% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels, solidifying the kingdom’s position as a major global aviation hub.

As domestic and international connectivity continues to expand, Riyadh Air is gearing up for its highly anticipated 2025 launch, promising to further elevate Saudi Arabia’s air transport industry. With passenger numbers soaring and new routes opening, the kingdom’s aviation sector is on a trajectory of record-breaking growth, aligning seamlessly with Vision 2030’s goal of transforming Saudi Arabia into a world-class travel hub.

Saudi Arabia’s Air Transport Sector Soars to Record-Breaking Heights in 2024

Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry achieved unprecedented milestones in 2024, with record-breaking growth in passenger traffic, flight operations, and cargo volumes. More than 128 million travelers passed through the kingdom’s airports, marking a 15% increase from 2023 and a 25% surge compared to pre-pandemic levels—a testament to the sector’s strong post-pandemic recovery.

Passenger Traffic Skyrockets

The latest Air Traffic 2024 Report from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) highlights a surge in passenger movement:

• 59 million domestic travelers
• 69 million international passengers

This surge has been driven by the expansion of Saudi Arabia’s key airlines:

• Saudia – The national carrier continued to expand its global reach, enhancing connectivity across Asia, Europe, and Africa.
• Flynas – The leading low-cost airline saw substantial growth, particularly in its regional and international operations.
• Flyadeal – The budget carrier expanded its fleet and network, making affordable travel more accessible than ever.
• Riyadh Air – The highly anticipated new airline is set to launch in late 2025, promising to transform Saudi Arabia into a global aviation hub.

Flights and Connectivity Reach New Heights

With 905,000 total flights recorded in 2024, air traffic saw an 11% increase from 2023:

• 474,000 domestic flights
• 431,000 international flights

Additionally, air connectivity grew by 16%, linking Saudi Arabia to over 170 international destinations, reinforcing the kingdom’s status as a major player in global aviation.

Air Cargo Growth Hits Record Levels

The air cargo sector also experienced exceptional expansion, increasing 34% to surpass 1.2 million tons. The three major airports handling most of the cargo traffic were:

• King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh – 573,000 tons
• King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah – 461,000 tons
• King Fahd International Airport, Dammam – 140,000 tons

The four major airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah collectively accounted for 82% of total air traffic, emphasizing their role as primary aviation hubs.

Hajj Season Sees Major Traffic Surge

During the 2024 Hajj season (May 9 – July 21), 1.5 million pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia by air, representing 40% of total international travelers during this period. The seamless handling of this seasonal surge highlights the efficiency of Saudi Arabia’s aviation infrastructure and airlines.

Saudi Arabia Sets Global Benchmarks in Air Travel

According to global travel data provider OAG, Saudi Arabia made significant strides on the world aviation stage in 2024:

• The Jeddah-Riyadh route recorded the largest increase in flight capacity among domestic routes globally.
• The Cairo-Jeddah route ranked as the second busiest international route worldwide.

The Future of Saudi Aviation: Aiming Higher Than Ever

With rapid expansion in passenger numbers, flight operations, and air cargo, Saudi Arabia’s air transport sector is cementing its position as a regional and global aviation powerhouse. As Riyadh Air prepares for its launch in late 2025, the kingdom is well on track to becoming a major international aviation hub, perfectly aligning with its Vision 2030 ambitions.

Saudi Arabia’s skies have never been busier—or more promising.

The post Saudia, Flynas, and Flyadeal Are Surging Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Sector with One Hundred Twenty-Eight Million Passengers Last Year as Riyadh Air Prepares for Its 2025 Takeoff appeared first on Travel And Tour World.