Saudi Arabia and Panama Sign Air Transport Agreement at Paris Air Show
In a significant development for international aviation relations, His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, has officially inked an agreement pertaining to air transport services between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Panama. This event occurred during the 55th Paris Air Show, known as “Le Bourget,” held in Paris from June 16 to June 19, 2025.
The newly established bilateral agreement is designed to augment the international civil aviation infrastructure defined by the Chicago Convention, a pivotal treaty signed in 1944 that aims to regulate global civil aviation based on principles of equitable and fair opportunities for all nations involved. The recent agreement encompasses regulatory frameworks necessary for ensuring safe, organized, and efficient air transport between the two countries.
The purpose of this agreement is manifold—it seeks to align with the standards set forth by the Chicago Convention while also adapting to the evolving needs of bilateral aviation management. This involves systematic procedures for granting transportation rights, implementing internationally recognized criteria for the designation and licensing of airlines, and bolstering rules related to aviation safety and security. Moreover, the agreement emphasizes equitable competition, fostering economic interests for national carriers, thereby enhancing their robust participation in meeting the demands of the air transport market between Saudi Arabia and Panama.
The implications of this agreement are significant. Not only does it serve to build a framework for greater cooperation in air transportation, but it also aligns with the strategic objectives of Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector. The strategy prioritizes forging international partnerships and establishing new bilateral agreements that will aid in achieving ambitious goals set forth by the Kingdom’s aviation strategy. Notably, these objectives include expanding the global air connectivity of Saudi Arabia to 250 destinations worldwide, aspiring to transform the nation into a global logistics hub, and facilitating the transportation of 330 million passengers annually by the year 2030.
This agreement is a step towards realizing these broader aspirations—strengthening the aviation ties between Saudi Arabia and Panama, thus creating enhanced opportunities for both nations. As they navigate the complexities of modern air transport, collaboration through such agreements becomes crucial in addressing the challenges of the fast-evolving global aviation landscape.
Furthermore, as the global aviation sector gradually recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, this agreement stands as a testament to the resilience and forward-thinking approach espoused by the General Authority of Civil Aviation. Both nations are gearing up to tap into new markets and exploit the advantages of deregulated airspace, which promotes increased competition, improved service levels, and reduced travel costs for consumers.
The Paris Air Show has historically served as a key venue for significant aviation announcements and partnerships. The signing of this air transport agreement reflects Saudi Arabia’s proactive stance in enhancing its aviation infrastructure through international collaboration. It also underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to diversifying its economy by investing in sectors that promise growth and sustainability in the coming years.
As the aviation landscape continues to shift, the strategic partnership forged through this agreement is likely to bear substantial economic fruit, benefiting both nations. By facilitating not just air transport, but also contributing to the broader economic engagements between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Panama, this agreement marks a notable milestone in international aviation cooperation. In summary, it sets a precedent for future interactions and illustrates the importance of collaborative frameworks in navigating the challenges and opportunities in global civil aviation.
