Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newly established national airline, has entered into a significant partnership with Saudi Ground Services Company (SGS) to facilitate comprehensive ground handling services across airports in the Kingdom. This landmark agreement, valued at approximately SAR 500 million, will take effect in March 2025 for an initial period of 36 months, with the potential for a two-year extension based on mutual agreement.

Comprehensive Ground Services for Enhanced Passenger Experience
As part of this strategic collaboration, SGS will be responsible for delivering an array of critical ground handling services, including ramp operations, baggage handling, and passenger terminal assistance for Riyadh Air’s scheduled flights. These services aim to elevate the efficiency of airport operations while ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for travelers. By prioritizing safety, punctuality, and hospitality, the airline seeks to uphold world-class service standards that align with its vision of becoming a leading global carrier.

The official signing ceremony took place at Riyadh Air’s corporate headquarters, with top executives from both organizations in attendance. Key figures at the event included Riyadh Air’s Chief Financial Officer, Adam Boukaida, and Saudi Ground Services Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Mazi. The agreement underscores Riyadh Air’s commitment to operational excellence as it prepares for its commercial launch in 2025.

Driving Growth in Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Sector
This partnership plays a vital role in Riyadh Air’s broader objectives of bolstering Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 roadmap. Beyond enhancing the efficiency of ground services, the agreement is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including contributions of SAR 75 billion to the non-oil GDP and the creation of over 200,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities.

By integrating advanced technology and best-in-class operational practices, the collaboration with SGS will not only streamline ground handling processes but also position Saudi Arabia as a premier global aviation hub. Riyadh Air’s ambitious expansion plans include connecting the Kingdom to more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, reinforcing its strategic position at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer at Riyadh Air, commented:

We are excited to finalize this partnership, which extends our previous collaboration from August 2024. This agreement ensures that we are fully prepared for Riyadh Air’s official operations in 2025. Ground handling services are a critical part of the premium experience we aim to provide to our passengers, and we are confident this partnership will set new benchmarks in the aviation industry both locally and globally.

Pioneering a New Era of Air Travel
As Riyadh Air approaches its inaugural flight, its partnership with SGS marks a crucial step in ensuring smooth airport operations and an elevated passenger experience. The airline is dedicated to setting new benchmarks in air travel, combining luxury, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology to redefine the future of Saudi aviation. With its focus on innovation and customer-centric services, Riyadh Air is poised to transform the regional and global airline industry, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s presence as a key player in international travel.

Mohammed Mazi, Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Ground Services Company, added:

We sincerely thank Riyadh Air’s leadership for placing their trust in our services. This contract represents an important addition to our growing portfolio of strategic airline clients and partners, both domestically and internationally. It is also a testament to the continuous development of our services, which align with global aviation standards. We look forward to being a part of Riyadh Air’s successful journey.
Source: www.travelandtourworld.com