Saudi Arabia is making a major statement on the global aviation stage, leading its largest-ever delegation to the 2025 Paris Air Show.
The high-profile delegation, spearheaded by His Excellency Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), includes top national aviation players such as Matarat, Riyadh Air, Saudia Airlines, Flynas, the Saudi Aviation Academy, and the Saudi Industrial Center.
The visit marks a key moment in the kingdom’s push to position itself as a global aviation and logistics hub, in alignment with its broader Vision 2030 strategy.
In addition to participating in the Air Show, the delegation is taking part in a high-level French-Saudi roundtable focused on deepening bilateral cooperation and investment in the aviation sector.
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Saudi Arabia’s growing aviation ambitions
GACA and Airbus signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on sustainable aviation initiatives. The agreement includes joint efforts in training, knowledge exchange, and participation in environmental programs, signaling a strong commitment to decarbonizing aviation in line with global trends.
H.E. Al-Duailej highlighted the importance of attending the Paris Air Show. “We are showcasing Saudi Arabia’s aviation progress and the scale of opportunities available. With our strategic location, modern infrastructure, and ambitious goals, we are positioning the kingdom as a global connector. Saudi Arabia provides opportunities for global aviation investors, with the Saudi Aviation Strategy unlocking $100 billion in infrastructure projects.”
Captain Sulaiman Almuhaimidi, executive vice president of aviation safety and environmental sustainability at GACA, said: “Today marks an important step in our commitment to a sustainable future for aviation in the kingdom. Through this collaboration with Airbus, we aim not only to meet the challenges of decarbonizing aviation but also to strengthen local capabilities through knowledge sharing and skills development for the next generation to lead by example in shaping a greener, more resilient air transport sector for generations to come.”
Gabriel Semelas, president of Airbus in Middle East and Africa, said: “This partnership with GACA marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to building a more sustainable future for aviation. At Airbus, we are honored to support the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its ambition for a more environmentally responsible aviation sector through innovative technologies, sustainable aviation solutions, and long-term collaboration. Together, we aim to accelerate the decarbonization of air transport in the region and beyond.”
Key developments
Moreover, AviLease made headlines by finalizing a landmark order for 77 Airbus aircraft, including A350 freighters and A320neo models. This purchase significantly boosts the kingdom’s future cargo and passenger capacity, while advancing AviLease’s mission to support Saudi Arabia’s expanding aviation infrastructure.
Riyadh Air confirmed a separate order for 50 Airbus aircraft, reinforcing its fleet expansion strategy and its role in delivering a modern, fuel-efficient airline designed to connect the kingdom to the world.
These strategic moves are central to the Saudi Aviation Strategy, which aims to triple annual passenger traffic to 330 million and expand international connectivity to 250 destinations by the end of the decade.
With its sweeping investments, sustainability commitments, and bold expansion plans, Saudi Arabia’s presence at the 2025 Paris Air Show underscores its intent to become a leading force in global aviation — bridging Asia, Africa, and Europe through a modern, connected, and resilient aviation ecosystem.
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