The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has revealed that Saudi airlines paid out a total of SR58 million in compensation to passengers over the course of 2021 and 2022. This compensation was awarded in accordance with regulations designed to protect passengers' rights and covered issues such as delays, baggage damage, flight cancellations, and delays.

GACA has emphasized its commitment to ensuring that travelers' rights are upheld when airlines fail to fulfill their obligations under passenger contracts. The aim is to enhance passenger satisfaction and improve the overall travel experience in Saudi Arabia.

Eng. Abdulaziz Aldahmash, Vice President of GACA for Quality and Traveler Experience, underlined the authority's dedication to facilitating complaint procedures, ensuring transparency, and resolving issues in line with approved regulations. He also stressed the importance of spreading awareness about travelers' rights and providing accessible channels for communication with the authority.

It's worth noting that GACA recently adopted new executive regulations to protect passenger rights, set to take effect on November 20, 2023. These regulations encompass 30 articles guaranteeing passengers' rights to proper care, support, and compensation, including compensation up to 150-200 percent of the ticket value. The new rules cover various aspects, from lost or damaged baggage to passenger disabilities and special requirements, ensuring passengers are treated fairly and transparently.

This comprehensive passenger protection regulation aligns with the National Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030, aiming to make Saudi Arabia a leader in the Middle East's aviation sector, with a target of 330 million passengers by 2030.