King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah has reported serving an unprecedented 42.7 million passengers in the year 2023. This figure represents a significant increase of 36% compared to the 31.4 million passengers in 2022, making it the busiest year in the airport’s history.
According to the latest statistical report from Jeddah Airports, the total number of flights soared to 250,000, marking a 25% increase from the previous year. This expansion in operations also saw over 33.8 million bags handled by the airport staff, with Terminal 1 alone witnessing a 16% rise in flight traffic to nearly 180,000 flights.
On the international stage, the airport enhanced its connectivity by increasing the number of destinations by over 11%, now operating 126 routes in contrast to the 114 routes from 2022. Notably, the Cairo-Jeddah route has seen substantial demand, offering 4.8 million seats and securing its rank as the second busiest international route in the world. Meanwhile, the domestic Riyadh-Jeddah route catered to the highest demand within the country, providing 7.8 million seats and standing as the eighth busiest domestic route globally.
A single day in June last year set a new record for the airport when the passenger count hit 151,000, surpassing the busiest day in the previous year. Moreover, the week leading up to the new year became the busiest week of 2023, with a total of 979,000 passengers travelling through the airport.
The striking growth in the airport’s operational activities is a testament to the dedicated efforts to develop the airport’s infrastructure, all aimed at delivering a seamless and convenient travel experience. This surge in passenger traffic is in step with the extensive development occurring across the Kingdom, particularly in the tourism sector. Eased visa procedures have been instrumental in attracting a larger influx of visitors, including pilgrims, Umrah performers, and tourists, reinforcing the airport’s role as the primary gateway to the Two Holy Mosques.
Moreover, the airport’s strategic position has been pivotal in establishing it as a key departure point for travellers and international airlines. The ambitious targets set by Vision 2030 and the National Transport and Logistics Strategy are well within reach, given the current trajectory, further bolstering the airport’s contribution to the Kingdom’s progress.
“Jeddah Airports” is responsible for the management and operation of King Abdulaziz International Airport, including the ongoing enhancement of its infrastructure and the expansion of services and facilities. These efforts ensure the airport operates at peak performance, adhering to the highest international standards, and affirming the Kingdom’s airports as distinguished gateways for visitors.
As the Kingdom forges ahead with its transformative Vision 2030 agenda, the airport’s record-setting performance in 2023 is a clear indication of the vibrant growth and the increasing global footprint of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.
…
