Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has been named ‘The World’s Most Improved Airline’ and ranked number one for the Best Economy Class Airline Catering at the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The event, hosted by Skytrax, the international air transport rating organisation, is based on a comprehensive global customer satisfaction survey covering more than 375 airlines worldwide.
Saudia has demonstrated unparalleled progress in its rankings over the past seven years, earning the title of ‘The World’s Most Improved Airline’ for the third time. The airline’s ranking has surged from 82nd place in 2017 to 23rd in 2023, and 20th in 2024. Saudia’s ‘SHINE’ transformation program, focused on elevating the guest experience, optimising operational efficiency, and enhancing its service and product offerings, has been instrumental in this remarkable achievement.
Saudia’s digital transformation and cutting-edge technologies have propelled the airline to rank among the top 10 globally in On-Time Performance (OTP) throughout 2023, maintaining this position for six consecutive months. In May 2024, Saudia was ranked among the top five for arrival On-Time Performance (OTP-A) and first globally for the highest departure On-Time Performance (OTP-D).
Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, the Director General, Saudia Group, emphasised that these awards reaffirm the airline’s dedication to excellence and commitment to achieving the objectives of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services. Saudia’s unwavering dedication has positioned it as a leading global connector, bridging the world to the Kingdom to serve a wide range of sectors.
Edward Plaisted, CEO, Skytrax, congratulated Saudia on this fabulous achievement, stating that the recognition is testament to the hard work by the management and staff. Saudia has charted a clear course for its future trajectory, as evidenced by recent landmark deals with Boeing and Airbus to acquire 154 new aircraft and a radical overhaul of its guests’ cabins, including high-speed in-flight internet and upgraded onboard entertainment screens.