Saudi Transport and Logistic Services Minister Saleh Al-Jasser, Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), announced that preliminary figures showed 15% passenger growth in 2024, reaching more than 128 million travelers. This was approximately 24% above pre-pandemic levels. Flights increased by 11% to more than 902,000.
Al-Jasser said connectivity expanded by 16%, linking Saudi Arabia with 172 destinations worldwide. Air cargo grew exceptionally by 34%, exceeding one million tonnes for the first time in 2024, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The figures were presented during the fifteenth steering committee meeting for implementation of the National Aviation Strategy, held in Riyadh yesterday and chaired by GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej. Participants included Saudi Royal Aviation Chairman Mohammed Al-Tuwaijri, Assistant Transport Minister Ahmed Al-Hassan, Assistant Sports Minister Adwa Al-Arifi, vice presidents, chief executives and representatives of aviation companies and airlines.
The meeting celebrated Saudi Arabia’s selection to host the 2034 World Cup and emphasized early readiness to welcome fans, alongside preparations for major events including the 2027 Asian Cup and Expo 2030. It also marked four years since the National Aviation Strategy was launched.
Al-Duailej attributed the previous year’s achievements to coordinated efforts across the sector. He noted record growth in 2023 and 2024, with major gains in connectivity, passenger numbers and cargo services.
He said the progress reflects the aviation ecosystem’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 through the National Aviation Strategy, derived from the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
Sports and tourism leaders, including the World Cup bid team, attended the meeting to discuss aviation’s role in preparing for the 2034 tournament and other major international events over the next decade.
Read the announcement on the Saudi Press Agency website.
