An inspection tour to ensure the efficiency of operational processes
As part of ongoing monitoring of the transport and logistics sectors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, conducted an inspection tour of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The visit aimed to assess operational procedures and ensure the smooth flow of passengers during the holy month of Ramadan, which typically sees a significant increase in passenger numbers, particularly those traveling to perform Umrah.
His Excellency was accompanied on the tour by the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailij, the CEO of Airports Holding Company, Eng. Raed Al-Idrisi, the CEO of Riyadh Airports Company, Mr. Ayman Abu Abah, and a number of other airport leaders and officials. The Minister reviewed the details of the approved operational plan for the Ramadan season, receiving a detailed explanation of the procedures in place to ensure the best possible services for passengers and minimize waiting times.
General context: Developing the aviation sector within Vision 2030
This tour comes within the framework of the Kingdom's tireless efforts to achieve the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which is one of the main pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. This strategy aims to consolidate the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents, and to increase the capacity of Saudi airports to reach 330 million passengers annually by 2030. King Khalid International Airport, as the gateway to the capital, Riyadh, is a key hub in achieving these ambitious goals.
The airport recently completed a successful terminal relocation process, which involved redistributing airlines and flights among different terminals. Engineer Al-Jasser confirmed that this strategic move aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve the passenger experience, and strengthen domestic and international air connectivity, thus contributing to accommodating the anticipated growth in air traffic.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
The success of operational plans at King Khalid International Airport, particularly during peak seasons like Ramadan, has multiple positive impacts both locally and internationally. Locally, it ensures a comfortable and seamless travel experience for citizens and residents, and enhances the efficiency of the transportation system. Internationally, the airport's efficiency reflects positively on the Kingdom's infrastructure and its ability to host major international events and handle high passenger flows, thus supporting the tourism and business sectors.
Improving the return on fixed assets at the airport, such as check-in counters, conveyor belts, and jet bridges, and re-engineering passenger and baggage flows, will increase capacity and enhance the airport's regional competitiveness. These efforts complement future mega-projects, most notably the new King Salman International Airport, which will transform Riyadh into a global hub for aviation and logistics.
At the end of his tour, Minister Al-Jasser expressed his thanks and appreciation to all airport employees from various governmental and private entities, praising their efforts that contributed to the success of the terminal transfer process and ensured the smooth and easy operation of the airport.
