SAUDIA Achieves 94% Increase in Number of Guests Travelling Globally

Reaffirming its objective to connect the world to Saudi Arabia

SAUDIA, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has released its operational performance report for the first quarter of 2023, which revealed a 35% increase in the number of guests carried across its flight network compared to the same period last year. The airline transported 7 million guests, including 3.2 million domestic guests and 3.8 million international guests, which represents a significant 94% increase, and reaffirms SAUDIA's objective to connect the world with Saudi Arabia.

During Q1 2023, SAUDIA’s aircraft flew over 42,000 flights across four continents, representing a 5% increase, which accumulated to over 127,500 flight hours, and a 26% increase. Internationally, the airline operated over 18,300 flights with an increase of 40% and recorded 87,300 flight hours with an increase of 55.2%. Additionally, 23,600 domestic flights were operated by SAUDIA across a total of 40,100 flying hours.

Captain Ibrahim Koshy, the CEO of SAUDIA, said: “The growth achieved during Q1 of 2023 comes in line with SAUDIA’s operational plan to increase its flights and seating capacity, considering the operational efficiency and maintaining on-time performance. This was evident in the services provided that enhanced the travel experience and earned the loyalty of more guests from all over the world. The most prominent of which was the “Your Ticket Your Visa” service, providing guests with easier access to the Kingdom through a digital integration system that links transit visas with flight tickets.

“SAUDIA's flight network and quality services have been contributing to the Kingdom's comprehensive development in all fields, including transporting visitors, tourists, and organizers to attend various events, exhibitions, and conferences held in the Kingdom. SAUDIA has designed an ambitious plan to transport more pilgrims as part of the Pilgrim Experience Program and connect the world with Saudi Arabia.” He added.

SAUDIA’s operations are expected to grow over the upcoming period. The airline will soon receive its first Airbus A321neo, with more deliveries expected of the same aircraft, as well as the A321XLR model. Additionally, SAUDIA completed its previous order for Boeing 787 aircrafts, aiming to add 38 new aircraft to its fleet by 2026. The airline also recently announced a new agreement with Boeing to deliver 39 new B787s, with an option to add another 10 aircraft.