Saudia — the national carrier of Saudi Arabia — recently announced impressive growth in its operational performance during the first half of 2024. According to its latest performance report, the airline carried 16.3 million passengers across domestic and international routes, a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Highlights
Saudia transported over 9.1 million international passengers, reflecting 24% year-on-year growth. The airline operated 42,000 international flights, an increase of 13%, logging 199,000 flight hours — a 12% rise from the previous year.
On its domestic routes, Saudia served over 7.2 million passengers, representing 14% growth, with more than 52,300 flights operated — a 10% increase. The airline also recorded a 9% rise in domestic flight hours, reaching 88,000.
Achievements and Expansion
The airline credits its success to a well-executed strategy for both the summer travel period and the Hajj season. H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, expressed gratitude to Saudia’s employees, emphasizing their role in achieving operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
“With unwavering dedication, operational excellence, and exemplary on-time performance, we have enhanced guest satisfaction and supported the Kingdom’s connectivity to the world,” Al-Omar said.
Saudia currently operates a fleet of 144 aircraft, connecting Saudi Arabia to over 100 destinations across four continents. This extensive network supports key sectors such as tourism, business, sports, entertainment, and religious travel for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
Future Outlook
As part of its commitment to scaling operations, Saudia signed two major agreements with Boeing and Airbus to acquire over 100 new aircraft.
The expansion seems to be intended side-by-side with another Saudi Arabian national carrier in the making: Riyadh Air. Currently, Saudia is serving a significant number of destinations from Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, including New York, Casablanca, and several points in Southeast Asia. Concentrating all operations in Jeddah, the carrier’s current main hub, will mean even more aggressive growth.
Saudia’s robust growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to position the Kingdom as a global hub for travel and tourism. By connecting millions of passengers and providing world-class service, Saudia plays a pivotal role in transforming Saudi Arabia into a premier international travel destination.
