SANS and NATS have entered into a collaborative agreement to conduct a study aimed at enhancing capacity at King Khalid International Airport. This initiative aligns with the ambitious growth and development plans of the Kingdom.
The agreement, which includes a broader strategic partnership, was formally signed by Abdulaziz Alzaid, CEO of SANS, and Martin Rolfe, CEO of NATS, during the Dubai Air Show.
NATS signs airport capacity contract with Saudi Air Navigation Services
The signings signify the shared commitment of the organizations to collaborate on Air Traffic Management (ATM) projects, aiming to ensure the secure expansion of air traffic across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is strategically investing in its aviation infrastructure to support the Kingdom’s collective growth objectives outlined in its Vision 2030 strategy. Over the next decade, Saudi Arabia aims to triple annual passenger traffic to 330 million, establish two global long-haul connecting hubs, and boost air cargo volume to 4.5 million tonnes.
Building on NATS’ ACE (Airport Capacity Enhancement) program, the project will deliver a benchmarked, data-driven assessment, providing valuable insights into current operations and recommendations for the safe expansion of airport capacity.
As the entity responsible for providing air navigation services in Saudi Arabia, SANS plays a crucial role in ensuring safe Air Traffic Management (ATM) across the country’s airspace and its expanding network of airports. Collaborating closely, SANS and NATS will conduct a comprehensive airport capacity study at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
Ahmed Alzahrani, the CSO of SANS, stated: “SANS is committed to transform the aviation landscape and guarantee that we are at the forefront of driving innovation to shape the aviation services of tomorrow. This collaboration will leverage NATS expertise and digital solutions, to unlock new possibilities in airspace management and seamless flow of air traffic in the Kingdom.”
Guy Adams, Managing Director of NATS Services, stated: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has ambitious plans for the future of its aviation industry. By collaborating with SANS, we can help deliver the safe and efficient capacity growth that the Kingdom is seeking. We are delighted to be working together to deliver a project in Riyadh, and I am confident that our operational experience at some of the world’s busiest airports will prove invaluable.”
The contract signing follows several meetings held at the World ATM Congress in Madrid, Airspace World in Geneva, and reciprocal visits between the two organisations to discuss shared priorities.
