The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia is opening the domestic private aviation market to international operators.
From 1 May 2025, GACA has removed cabotage restrictions for foreign on-demand charter flights within the Kingdom and will allow foreign charter operators to apply for permission to operate domestic flights, following specific requirements set by GACA.
The decision comes as part of the GACA’s broader strategy to boost the private jet market in the Kingdom, supported by the establishment of a sector development committee to engage international and domestic business jet operators.
“GACA is unlocking new opportunities for the global aviation industry, by removing restrictions on charter flight businesses to operate domestically in the Kingdom,” said Imtiyaz Manzary, general manager for general aviation at GACA.
“This regulatory decision supports GACA’s roadmap to establish Saudi Arabia as a general aviation hub, alongside an unprecedented infrastructure programme to establish new private airports and terminals across the Kingdom.”
Max Cassar, Aircraft Charter Broker at Smart, commented “The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia allowing foreign operators to charter flights domestically within Saudi Arabia is big news! Opening up the market to international operators is a huge step forward for private aviation in Saudi Arabia and will create exciting opportunities for Smart Aviation, our charter operators, partners and clients, and further support the growth of private aviation and luxury travel in the region.”
Saudi Arabia’s business jet sector achieved a record 24% jump in flight volumes in 2024 to 23,612 flights, with domestic jet flights rising 26% to 9,206 and international jet flights rising 15% to 14,406.
For global on-demand jet charter enquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact us via sales@smart-aviation.co.uk or 24/7 on + 441293 551244
