Wedoany.com Report-Dec.16, The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia has awarded two National Charter Air Carrier tenders to consortia led by Jazeera Airways and BeOnd Aviation. This decision advances the expansion of domestic and international charter flight services throughout the Kingdom, contributing to broader objectives of improving passenger options and service standards.

The awards align with the Aviation Program within the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, aimed at modernizing the aviation sector and delivering enhanced connectivity in line with national development goals.

"The Aviation Program is opening the charter market to new operators, driving competition and attracting additional investment into the sector. This tender award marks an important step in diversifying our aviation offering and supporting the sector's broader transformation, while expanding flexible connectivity options that meet the Kingdom's growing travel needs," said Awad Alsulami, Executive Vice President for Economic Policies & Logistics Services at GACA.

GACA previously issued a public invitation for proposals to establish national charter air carriers. Following a thorough review of submissions based on regulatory and commercial standards, the authority selected the two top-ranked bids. Each consortium incorporates foreign participation while maintaining majority Saudi ownership, in accordance with tender requirements.

By 2030, the combined initiatives are projected to substantially increase charter capacity, connecting 48 domestic and international destinations and introducing around six million additional seats annually to the national aviation network. The alliances plan to operate a total fleet of 21 aircraft and generate approximately 1,000 employment positions.

The new services, led by Jazeera Airways and BeOnd Aviation, will particularly strengthen offerings for group travel and business-related charters, providing greater flexibility for specialized passenger segments.

GACA highlighted that the selections demonstrate its focus on fostering competition, expanding choices, and elevating performance across the aviation industry for all users, including those requiring tailored travel arrangements.

Upon award, the chosen consortia will proceed with required economic and technical licensing steps prior to launching operations. GACA will supervise compliance throughout this preparation period and, once services commence, will monitor ongoing financial health, operational adherence, and quality of passenger experience.

These developments represent a structured approach to enhancing charter aviation infrastructure, supporting increased mobility and economic activity through reliable and diverse air transport solutions.