Saudi Arabia, through its General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), actively participated in the 42nd International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) General Assembly in Montreal from 23 September to 3 October. The delegation successfully signed 17 air transport agreements and memoranda of understanding. Additionally, they conducted 40 bilateral meetings to enhance international aviation cooperation.
These efforts highlight the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding its global presence in air transport. They also aim to establish regulatory frameworks for air traffic and enhance aviation safety and security standards. Moreover, these initiatives broaden travel options for passengers, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Commitment to Aviation Safety and Security
Saudi Arabia submitted 31 working papers covering a wide range of topics aligned with its leading role in civil aviation. These papers addressed aviation safety and security, airport infrastructure development, and passenger transport facilitation. Furthermore, they included sustainability initiatives, environmental stewardship, carbon emissions reduction, and investment in biofuels and clean technologies. All these efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub.
The ICAO Executive Council renewed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s membership for the 2026–2028 term. The Kingdom received 175 out of 184 votes, maintaining its uninterrupted membership since 1986.
Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser announced a $1 million donation from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to support the ICAO. This contribution will advance the strategic objectives of the “No Country Left Behind” initiative during the 2025–2028 cycle. The initiative aims to assist developing countries in implementing international standards and recommended practices to enhance civil aviation safety and security.
Recognition and Contributions
ICAO honored Saudi Arabia, represented by Chairman of the Cooperative Aviation Security Program–Middle East (CASP-MID) Mohammed Alfozan. This recognition is for his leadership and management of the program and his contributions to enhancing aviation security capabilities in the region.
The recognition reflects the Kingdom’s pioneering role in supporting ICAO programs and global initiatives to strengthen civil aviation security. It also underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring that “no country is left behind.”
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia hosted a reception attended by more than 450 participants from various countries. The event included representatives from the aviation sector, diplomats, and ICAO member states. The reception featured an exhibition showcasing traditional handicrafts such as weaving and leatherwork, and performances of Saudi folk music and dance.
A documentary film was also screened, tracing the history and development of civil aviation in the Kingdom. It highlighted the Kingdom’s progress toward becoming a modern aviation powerhouse.
