Source: Times Aerospace

Business jet flights rose from 19,000 in 2023 to a record 23,612 in 2024, with domestic jet flights rising 26% to 9,206 and international jet flights rising 15% to 14,406. This growth was led by Saudi Arabia’s airport hubs, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah saw a 30% increase in business jet traffic, while King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh recorded a 22% rise and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam saw a 7% increase.

Tourism destinations Sindalah, the Red Sea and Al Ula were popular new destinations for business, whilst events such as the Future Investment Initiative and Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah also supported the record growth in jet traffic.

Mohammed Alkhuraisi, GACA’s executive vice president of strategy and business said: “A thriving business jet sector is essential to support Saudi Arabia’s luxury tourism and business sectors. To build on the record business jet growth achieved in 2024, an unprecedented investment program is underway to ensure the Kingdom offers unparalleled business jet aviation infrastructure and services.”

“Saudi Arabia’s General Aviation Roadmap is opening the Kingdom’s business aviation sector to the world, offering global business aviation investors, operators, manufacturers and service providers the chance to be part of a $2 billion aviation opportunity.”