According to the Saudi Arabian Air Navigation Services, Saudi Arabia's air traffic has experienced significant growth. In the first half of 2023, flight movements increased 26 percent, totaling 403,223 flights. This growth is attributed to the Kingdom's major transformation programs.
The aviation authority reported 305,156 domestic and international flights during the first half of 2023, a 27% increase from last year. Transit flights totaled 98,067 between January and June, showing a 25% rise compared to the previous year.
In addition, there was a 23% increase in the number of aircraft or flights that received maintenance, refueling, and catering services during the first half of this year, reaching 14,811.
In a tweet following the report release, Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, praised the Kingdom's air traffic growth during the first half of 2023. He highlighted the high operational efficiency and safety standards achieved, which will boost the air transport sector's economy, support tourism and movement, and connect the Kingdom to the world.
In addition, the number of destinations accessible by air from the Kingdom increased by 15% to 7,153 during the first half of this year compared to last year. The International Air Transport Association reported that Saudi Arabia's air connectivity improved significantly, climbing from 27th place in 2019 to 13th this year.