Riyadh Welcomes Inaugural Flight of China Southern Airlines
In a significant development, China Southern Airlines landed its inaugural flight in Riyadh on April 16, marking a milestone in the growing air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Beijing.
Successful Arrival at King Khalid International Airport
The Chinese airplane landed at the King Khalid International Airport at night with approximately 247 passengers on board, achieving an impressive load factor of 86 percent, as reported by Al-Ekhbariya Channel.
Enhanced Connectivity with China
The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation had previously granted China Southern Airlines the license to operate regular weekly passenger and freight flights from Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen to Riyadh during the summer season of 2024. This includes four passenger and commercial flights along with three cargo flights, all beginning on April 16.
Potential for High Utilization Rate
Ayman Aboabah, CEO of Riyadh Airport Co., expressed optimism about the new route, stating that during peak seasons, the utilization rate could reach up to 90 percent. This highlights the significant demand for the updated passage.
Future Plans for Air Connectivity
Aboabah revealed that another station is set to become operational by June, with plans in place to attract three to four additional carriers in the upcoming year. He emphasized the pride in inaugurating the return of the first Chinese carrier to the Kingdom.
Focus on Enhancing Economic Cooperation
In a high-level meeting held in Beijing in February, top officials from Saudi Arabia and China discussed investment opportunities, technology transfer, and enhancing economic cooperation. The visit aimed to explore cooperation in connectivity and partnership aspects across various areas.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Sector
The efforts to enhance air connectivity align with GACA’s goal of modernizing the airport system and supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector target of attracting 150 million visitors by 2030. The launch of direct flights between Jeddah and Beijing by Saudia in August 2023 was a significant step towards achieving these goals.
Expanding Opportunities for Passengers
Prior to the launch of the Jeddah-Beijing route, passengers traveling from Saudi Arabia to China were limited to visiting Guangzhou. The introduction of direct flights between Jeddah and Beijing opened up new opportunities for passengers, with flights operating twice a week from Jeddah and Riyadh.