Saudia Group secured the top position globally in both departure and arrival on-time performance, as highlighted in the June 2025 report by Cirium, a leading global aviation analytics provider.
This milestone underscores its dedication to operational excellence and plays a vital role in advancing the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
The report indicated that the airline operated over 16,700 flights during the month, achieving a 91.33 percent on-time arrival rate and a 90.69 percent on-time departure rate. Flyadeal airline also ranked first in the Middle East and Africa for on-time arrival performance, attaining a rate of 91.77 percent across more than 5,900 flights.
A recent press release from Saudia Group emphasized that this marks the second occasion in 2025 that Saudia has led global rankings in both arrival and departure on-time performance, with a prior achievement noted last March. This accomplishment reflects Saudia and flyadeal’s steadfast focus on operational efficiency and excellence, attained during the high-demand periods of Hajj, summer travel, and Eid Al-Adha holidays.
Advanced AI systems optimize flight planning
Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia Group, stated, “Achieving exceptional on-time performance and maintaining operational excellence requires seamless coordination across all sectors and subsidiaries of the group. This accomplishment underscores our direct contribution to the objectives of the National Aviation Strategy, particularly in enhancing the overall guest travel experience.”
He added that Saudia’s ongoing success is fueled by the skill and professionalism of its national workforce, who manage flight operations with a strong commitment to time efficiency as a key pillar of the guest experience. Saudia also utilizes advanced digital systems powered by artificial intelligence to optimize flight planning, supported by predictive alerts and analytics that facilitate rapid responses to operational challenges.
The release further noted that as part of Saudia Group’s ambitious plan to expand its fleet in the coming years, 188 new aircraft will be added to its current fleet of 187. The airline’s Integrated Operations Control Center (IOCC) at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah is fully equipped to manage this significant growth. As the largest facility of its kind in the Middle East, the IOCC plays a central role in coordinating flight operations across all Saudia Group entities, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and seamless integration at scale.
Saudia wins Best Service Award and expands A330neo fleet
Recently, Saudia won the Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East award at the Skytrax awards. In April 2025, Saudia Group signed an aircraft deal with Airbus to enhance its fleet by adding up to 20 new wide-body A330neo aircraft, 10 of which are firm orders for flyadeal, the group’s low-cost carrier.
Known for its efficiency, long range, and exceptional versatility, the A330neo model aligns with Saudia’s strategy to expand its operational reach and introduce more destinations. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2027, with the final aircraft arriving in 2029.
Saudia Group currently operates a fleet of 194 aircraft, serving commercial aviation, cargo operations, and logistics services. The group is preparing for a significant expansion, with 191 new aircraft awaiting delivery in the coming years. This expansion will further support national economic growth and contribute to key strategic initiatives and major events aimed at bringing the world to Saudi Arabia.
