GACA announces record-breaking 2023 air traffic performance, alongside further initiatives to progress Saudi Aviation Strategy.

• A record 112 million passengers and 815,000 flights were recorded in Saudi Arabia in 2023, a 26% increase on 2022 and 8% above 2019 levels.

• Low-cost-carriers (LCC) have driven growth in the Kingdom, increasing their domestic market share to 44% and international market share to 32% – more than double pre-pandemic levels.

• Madinah Airport has announced an expansion to double in size to 17 million passengers, with Saudia also announcing an expansion of Madinah operations to service the province.

Madinah, Saudi Arabia, 21 March 2024: The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced outstanding progress in the Kingdom’s air traffic performance in 2023 with a significant growth in flights, passenger numbers and connectivity.

As a result of the measures being implemented through the Saudi Aviation Strategy, the Kingdom saw the total number of flights increase 16% from 701,290 to 814,995 and the number of passengers rise 26% from 88 million to 112 million in 2023, well above pre-pandemic levels. In addition, 2023 saw Saudi Arabia expand its air connectivity to reach 148 destinations with at least 52 flights to and from the Kingdom.

Low-cost carriers drove most growth in passenger traffic, increasing domestic market share from 27% to 44%. The significant rise stresses the evolving preferences of travelers in the domestic market, and greater competition, choice and value on offer within the market. Internationally, the LCC’s market share has also doubled from 16% pre-pandemic to 32% in 2023.

GACA President H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej said: 

“The exceptional 2023 air traffic figures are a testament to the strategic vision reflected in the Saudi Aviation Strategy, positioning the Kingdom to lead in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia is now more connected to the world than ever before, delivering record double-digit growth in flights and passengers carried during 2023.”

“Saudi Arabia is creating unprecedented opportunities for global aviation and the private sector. Today’s announcements pave the way for further growth, with the Madinah Airport doubling its capacity – reflecting the success of this Public-Private Partnership project.” 

The 2023 performance figures were announced alongside several further growth initiatives at the 12^th Saudi Aviation Strategy Steering Committee in Madinah. Madinah Airport announced a masterplan expansion that will double capacity from 8 to 17 million passengers per annum. Saudia announced that it will expand operations at Madinah airport, providing dedicated aircraft and greater capacity to support pilgrims and other travelers.  

Source: GACA