Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Saudi Arabia’s major tourism projects, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has secured its second operating licence for a water aerodrome. This new license is for Shebara Resort, part of The Red Sea development, and represents a key milestone in enhancing the region’s tourism and aviation infrastructure.
The license was presented by His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA), to John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG, at The Red Sea destination. This event aligns with GACA’s broader aviation transformation programme, which supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by boosting competition and investment in the aviation sector.
The Shebara Resort, located on Sheybarah Island, will be the first resort at The Red Sea owned and operated by RSG. The resort is accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from the mainland or a 20-minute seaplane journey. The resort is notable for its striking design and proximity to a vibrant coral reef.
This new aerodrome license follows the first, secured by RSG for Ummahat Island, which has been operational since early 2024. The aerodrome has already facilitated over 520 flights, transporting more than 1,200 passengers. RSG projects this number will rise to 3,800 passengers by the end of the year.
Fly Red Sea, the seaplane company launched by RSG, already provides air transport to the Red Sea’s island resorts such as the St. Regis Red Sea Resort or the luxurious Nujuma, A Ritz Carlton Reserve.
John Pagano, the Group CEO of Red Sea Global and an avid pilot himself, said, “Fly Red Sea embodies our commitment to unparalleled service, a minimal carbon footprint, and significant career prospects for the Saudi community. With this venture, we aim to redefine luxury air travel while staying true to our sustainability and community-focused vision.”
Fly Red Sea boasts a fleet of four Cessna Caravan 208 seaplanes, each fitted with sumptuous boutique interiors to ensure a lavish flight experience. Designed to comfortably transport a pilot and up to six guests with their luggage, the aircraft can also host up to nine individuals on scenic tours of the region. As testament to RSG’s confidence in the project, there are ambitious plans to expand the fleet to over 20 seaplanes by the dawn of 2030.
In line with RSG’s ethos, Fly Red Sea champions sustainable operations. Their seaplanes will be fuelled by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from inception. Additionally, the company is pioneering strides towards greener aviation with prospects of introducing fully electric seaplanes. A collaboration with ZeroAvia is in the offing, focusing on retrofitting Cessna Caravan Seaplanes with cutting-edge hydrogen-electric propulsion technology.
Another feather in RSG’s cap is its dedication to harnessing local expertise. Fly Red Sea boasts the distinction of having the first licensed Saudi seaplane captain, while the pioneering seaplane-specific engineers have also been onboarded.
A highlight of this venture is the bespoke seaplane infrastructure at the Red Sea International Airport. Serving as Fly Red Sea’s headquarters, the airport features a dedicated seaplane runway parallel to the main terminal, with plans for an exclusive seaplane terminal in the pipeline.
The Red Sea project continues to progress, with three hotels already welcoming guests, and more developments scheduled to open by 2025. Upon completion in 2030, the destination will feature 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms, and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites.
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