IATA announces training initiatives with Saudi partners to boost aviation skills

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IATA announces training initiatives with Saudi partners to boost aviation skills

Research

Leslie MacIntosh Corporate Secretary & Acting General Counsel | International Air Transport Association - IATA

By Sky Industry News

May 6, 2025

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has entered into several training agreements with Saudi airlines, airports, and academic institutions. These agreements aim to provide critical skills needed for the Kingdom's expanding aviation sector. The agreements were announced in Jeddah on May 6-7, 2025.

Initially, over 1,000 aviation graduates and employees will receive training in areas such as airport development, safety, airline management, and ground operations. Currently, aviation contributes USD 90.6 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and supports 1.4 million jobs. This contribution is anticipated to grow significantly as travel and tourism become central to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and Middle East stated: “Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is undergoing unprecedented growth and transformation. The Kingdom is not only expanding its aviation infrastructure but it is also investing in its people.”

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The training agreements for 2025 include partnerships with Riyadh Airports Company and Qassim University as Regional Training Partners. Prince Sultan Aviation Academy will expand its course offerings. Across these entities, more than 60 courses will be available covering various aspects of airport development and operations.

IATA will offer industry awareness courses to graduates at Riyadh Air and Saudia Airlines to attract national talent for future leadership roles within the airlines. Additionally, Dangerous Goods Courses will be provided to personnel at the Saudi Academy of Civil Aviation.

SAL Saudi Logistics Services has been certified as a CBTA Center while Saudi Ground Services renewed both its CBTA Center and Training Validation Program certification for ground operations training.

For further details, interested parties are encouraged to contact Corporate Communications.