Saudi Air Connectivity Program Expands Routes at Bahrain Event

Saudi Arabia is rapidly transforming itself into a global aviation hub, driven by the ambitious Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP). This initiative aims to attract international airlines, expand air routes, and welcome 150 million visitors by 2030.

The Saudi government formed the ACP in 2021 to streamline the entry of air travel partners into the kingdom. By adding or developing new routes, it cements Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in tourism or air connectivity.

Its mandate specifically covers the objectives of enabling and enhancing air connectivity, maximizing stakeholder engagement, and ensuring operational excellence. Since its inception, the Saudi Air Connectivity Program has developed over 60 direct air routes to Saudi Arabia.

Air Connectivity Program at Routes World 2024

The Saudi Air Connectivity Program seeks to enhance air connectivity to the kingdom, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and tourism development. By collaborating with international airlines and improving infrastructure, the program aims to make Saudi Arabia a more accessible and attractive destination for travelers.

With these objectives, the ACP recently met with major international transport companies at Routes World 2024 in Manama, Bahrain. Specifically, it aimed to increase air routes to 250 destinations and welcome 150 million visitors by 2030. Moreover, it strived to showcase its services and opportunities to improve air connectivity with the kingdom.

At the three-day event, the Air Connectivity Program scheduled more than 100 meetings with global aviation leaders to explore partnerships. Specifically, the ACP is looking into exploring opportunities for both served and underserved routes. Moreover, they aim to expand flights on both these kinds of routes.

Rashed Al-Shammari, ACP Executive Vice President of Commercial Affairs, met with European airlines, particularly Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, they also met with Chinese companies.

Based on these discussions, Al-Shammari confirmed that companies were interested in entering the Saudi market. However, this process would take six months up to five years, because of factors like aircraft availability, distance, and profitability. More so considering the impact the COVID-19 pandemic left on the aviation industry.

ACP’s key strategies

One of the key strategies of the program is to form partnerships with international airlines. For example, aJet, a Turkish airline, has established a partnership with Saudi Arabia to increase flights between the two countries. Additionally, Qatar Airways has expanded its services to Saudi Arabia, offering flights to multiple destinations within the kingdom.

To support its aviation ambitions, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in infrastructure development. The most notable project is the expansion of King Salman International Airport in Riyadh. This massive undertaking aims to transform the airport into the world’s largest by 2030, accommodating millions of passengers annually.

Looking ahead

The growth of Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry offers significant benefits for both the kingdom and international airlines. Increased air connectivity can boost tourism, trade, and investment. For airlines, it provides opportunities to tap into the growing Saudi market and expand their networks.

With these developments, Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform its aviation sector are fast gaining momentum. The Air Connectivity Program, coupled with infrastructure development and partnerships, positions the kingdom as a major player in global aviation. As Saudi Arabia continues to implement its ambitious plans, it is ready to become a leading destination for travelers from around the world.