VistaJet becomes first overseas operator authorized to fly domestically in Saudi
Private aviation firm VistaJet has become the first overseas operator authorized to fly domestically in Saudi Arabia, following a recent rule change in the country.
VistaJet announced on August 20, 2025, that the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) had approved its application to offer domestic flights as part of Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry “undergoing a historic transformation”.
On May 1, 2025, GACA removed cabotage restrictions for on-demand charter operations in a move designed to “attract investments and enhance its position in the global aviation industry”.
“Authorizing VistaJet as the first international private jet operator for domestic operations in the Kingdom is a milestone in enhancing the general aviation market in Saudi Arabia. This step will foster greater competition, stimulate sector growth, and raise the quality of services for private aviation customers in the Kingdom and across the region,” said Awad Alsulami, Executive Vice President for Economic Policies & Logistics Services at GACA.
During the first half of 2025, VistaJet saw a 32% increase in VistaJet Program Members in Saudi Arabia year-over-year, highlighting the drive in demand for both domestic and global flying solutions for both local and international clients.
According to the VistaJet, the company has served the Saudi market for over 15 years, more than any other international operator
“The approval and recognition from GACA marks a significant milestone for Vista’s operations in the Kingdom. By expanding our domestic capabilities, we are not only strengthening our regional presence but also amplifying the efficiency of our global fleet. We are proud to support Vision 2030 and grateful to the leadership and the GACA team for making this possible,” said Nick van der Meer, CCO at Vista.
A spokesperson for GACA said that the development marks an “important step in advancing the objectives of the Aviation Program under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy”.
“The program seeks to position Saudi Arabia as the Middle East’s leading aviation sector by 2030, transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub connecting three continents, and support the continued growth of the tourism sector,” the spokesperson added.
RELATED
Alaska unveils enhanced loyalty program with Hawaiian, launches Starlink Wi-Fi
The post VistaJet becomes first overseas operator authorized to fly domestically in Saudi appeared first on AeroTime.
Private aviation firm VistaJet has become the first overseas operator authorized to fly domestically in Saudi Arabia, following…
The post VistaJet becomes first overseas operator authorized to fly domestically in Saudi appeared first on AeroTime.
