Saudia Soars to New Heights in 2024: Record Growth and Operational Excellence
In a landmark year for aviation, Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has cemented its position as a global leader in the industry. The airline’s 2024 performance report reveals unprecedented growth in international traffic, operational efficiency, and passenger satisfaction, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward excellence.
Record-Breaking Growth in International Traffic
Table of Contents
- Record-Breaking Growth in International Traffic
- Operational Excellence and Passenger Satisfaction
- Digital Transformation and Innovation
- Fleet Expansion and Future Plans
- A Legacy of Excellence
- Key highlights of Saudia’s 2024 Performance
- Looking Ahead
- Interview with Saudia’s Director General, Engineer Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar
Saudia transported 20 million international guests in 2024, a 16% increase compared to 2023. Additionally, the airline served over 9.3 million transit guests, an 18% rise from the previous year. These figures underscore Saudia’s pivotal role in connecting the world to the Kingdom and advancing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in tourism, entertainment, sports, Hajj, and Umrah.
In total, the airline carried 35 million guests across its domestic and international routes, a 15% year-on-year increase. This growth was supported by 193,000 scheduled and additional flights, up by 10%, and 581,000 flight hours, an 8.5% increase.
Operational Excellence and Passenger Satisfaction
Saudia’s commitment to punctuality and service quality has paid off. the airline achieved an 89.1% on-time departure rate, a 2.7% enhancement from 2023. passenger satisfaction also reached new heights,with the Net Promoter Score (NPS) climbing to 32.7, a 4.5% increase.
Engineer Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar, Director General of the Saudia Group, attributed these achievements to the airline’s strategic focus on continuous development. “The aviation industry requires a system that operates according to a strategy of continuous development and achievement,” he said. “The growing numbers are the result of the efforts of saudia employees, the optimal investment in our aircraft fleet, and the enhancement of guest experiences.”
Digital Transformation and Innovation
saudia’s digital transformation has been a key driver of its success.The airline reported a 40% increase in the use of its smartphone request, while transactions through the government digital wallet surged by 324%.These advancements have streamlined the travel experience, making it more convenient and efficient for passengers.
Fleet Expansion and Future Plans
With a current fleet of 147 Boeing and airbus aircraft, Saudia is poised for further growth. The airline has an enterprising plan to add 118 new aircraft in the coming years, expanding its reach to new destinations and increasing seat capacity.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1945, Saudia is one of the largest airlines in the Middle East, operating flights to over 100 destinations across four continents, including 28 domestic routes. As a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Arab Air Transport Association (ACO), and the SkyTeam alliance, Saudia has consistently set benchmarks in the aviation industry.
In 2024,the airline was awarded the “World Class Airline 2025” title by the Air Passenger Experience Association (APEX) for the fourth consecutive year.It also climbed 11 places in the Skytrax global airline rankings and was recognized as one of the top ten moast punctual airlines worldwide by Candle.
Key highlights of Saudia’s 2024 Performance
| Metric | 2024 Performance | Year-on-Year Change |
|—————————|—————————-|————————-|
| International Guests | 20 million | +16% |
| Transit Guests | 9.3 million | +18% |
| Total Guests | 35 million | +15% |
| Scheduled Flights | 193,000 | +10% |
| Flight Hours | 581,000 | +8.5% |
| On-Time Departure Rate | 89.1% | +2.7% |
| Net Promoter Score (NPS) | 32.7 | +4.5% |
Looking Ahead
Saudia remains committed to enhancing its operational model, particularly during peak seasons, to meet growing demand. With its modern fleet and innovative approach, the airline is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success, bringing the world closer to the Kingdom and beyond.
For more details about Saudia’s services and achievements, visit their official website at www.saudia.com.
Interview with Saudia’s Director General, Engineer Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar
Editor: engineer Ibrahim, Saudia has had an outstanding year in 2024. what do you attribute this remarkable growth to?
Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar: The growth we’ve achieved is the result of a collective effort. Our employees have worked tirelessly, and we’ve made strategic investments in our aircraft fleet and passenger experience. Additionally,our focus on aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 has been instrumental in driving international traffic, notably in tourism, Hajj, and Umrah.
Editor: The airline’s on-time departure rate improved substantially. What measures did Saudia take to enhance punctuality?
Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar: Punctuality is a cornerstone of our operational strategy. we’ve implemented advanced scheduling systems and optimized ground operations to minimize delays. Our on-time departure rate of 89.1% reflects these efforts, and we’re committed to maintaining this standard.
Editor: The Net Promoter Score (NPS) saw a 4.5% increase. How has Saudia improved passenger satisfaction?
Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar: We’ve focused on every aspect of the passenger journey, from booking to arrival. Our digital change has made travel more convenient, while personalized service and enhanced in-flight experiences have contributed to our NPS of 32.7.We’re proud to see our guests’ satisfaction grow year after year.
Editor: Saudia’s digital transformation has been a key success factor. Can you elaborate on this initiative?
Engineer Ibrahim Al-omar: Absolutely. Our digital transformation has been a game-changer. The 40% increase in the use of our smartphone app and the 324% surge in transactions through the government digital wallet highlight how we’ve streamlined the travel experience. These innovations have made processes faster and more efficient for our passengers.
Editor: With a fleet expansion plan in place, what can passengers expect in the coming years?
Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar: We’re excited about our fleet expansion.We currently operate Boeing and Airbus aircraft,and we plan to add 118 new planes in the near future. This will not only expand our reach to new destinations but also increase seat capacity, ensuring we can meet growing demand.
Editor: Saudia has been recognized globally with several awards. How do these accolades reflect the airline’s commitment to excellence?
Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar: Awards like the “World Class Airline 2025” by APEX and our improved ranking in Skytrax are testaments to our dedication. They reflect our relentless pursuit of operational excellence, innovation, and passenger satisfaction. We’re honored to be recognized on a global stage.
Editor: Looking ahead, what are Saudia’s priorities for 2025 and beyond?
engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar: Our priorities remain clear: enhancing operational efficiency, expanding our network, and continuing our digital transformation. We’re also focused on improving our services during peak seasons to meet the increasing demand. Our goal is to strengthen our position as a global leader in aviation.
Conclusion
Saudia’s 2024 performance is a testament to its commitment to growth,innovation,and excellence. Under the leadership of Engineer Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar, the airline has achieved record-breaking milestones across international traffic, operational efficiency, and passenger satisfaction. With its ambitious fleet expansion and digital transformation initiatives,Saudia is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success in the global aviation industry.
