Business Aviation
AirX Charter Gains Saudi Approval for Domestic Charter Flights
AirX Charter secures GACAR Part 129 authorization to operate domestic on-demand flights in Saudi Arabia, supporting Vision 2030 goals.
This article is based on an official press release and public announcements from AirX Charter and the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
Malta-based private aviation operator AirX Charter has secured a pivotal regulatory approval to expand its operations within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. According to an official announcement released this week, the company has received its Foreign Operator Authorization (FOA) under GACAR Part 129 from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). This certification grants AirX the right to conduct domestic on-demand charter flights between Saudi cities, a privilege previously restricted for foreign carriers.
The authorization marks a significant shift in the Kingdom’s aviation policy, which has historically limited foreign operators to international legs,flying passengers into or out of the country but not between domestic points. With this new license, AirX can now service routes such as Riyadh to Jeddah or Dammam to NEOM without the aircraft needing to depart Saudi airspace between legs.
The certificate was formally presented at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh. The ceremony was attended by AirX Group CEO Houssam Hazzoury and Captain Sulaiman bin Saleh Al-Muhaimidi, GACA’s Executive Vice President for Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability. The move is described by both parties as a step toward fulfilling the aviation goals outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Breaking Cabotage Restrictions
The core significance of the GACAR Part 129 authorization lies in the removal of “cabotage” restrictions. In aviation, cabotage refers to the transport of goods or passengers between two points in the same country by a vessel or aircraft registered in another country. Most nations strictly regulate or ban this practice to protect domestic airlines from foreign competition.
According to the provided research report, AirX joins a select group of international operators, including VistaJet and Flexjet, that have been granted similar permissions. This regulatory relaxation is part of the “General Aviation Roadmap” spearheaded by GACA to address a supply-demand gap in the Kingdom. As mega-projects like NEOM, Red Sea Global, and AlUla accelerate, the demand for flexible, high-end domestic transport has outpaced the capacity of local fleets.
In a statement regarding the approval, AirX leadership emphasized the strategic importance of the Saudi market:
“Saudi Arabia represents one of the most strategic and dynamic aviation markets globally. Receiving GACA approval marks a major milestone for AirX and enables us to deepen our operational presence within the Kingdom… We look forward to delivering world-class Private-Jets services that align with the Kingdom’s aviation ambitions under Vision 2030.”
, Houssam Hazzoury, Group CEO of AirX Charter
Operational Capabilities and Fleet Strategy
AirX Charter operates a business model that is distinct from many of its competitors. Rather than focusing exclusively on new light or midsize jets, the company specializes in the “heavy” and “VIP airliner” segments. Their fleet, which numbers approximately 20 to 21 aircraft, includes converted airliners such as the Airbus A340 and Boeing 737-700 (BBJ), as well as the Embraer Lineage 1000 and Bombardier Challenger 850s.
This fleet composition is particularly well-suited for the Saudi market, which often involves the transport of large government delegations, royal family members, and corporate executive teams visiting remote project sites. The ability to move large groups in luxury configurations domestically provides a logistical alternative to commercial first-class travel, which may not offer the necessary schedule flexibility for high-level dignitaries.
The expansion into Saudi Arabia was supported by AstroLabs, a regional platform that assists international companies in navigating the regulatory landscape of the Gulf. The partnership highlights the increasing ease of doing business for foreign entities within the Kingdom, provided they align with the broader economic diversification goals of Vision 2030.
AirPro News Analysis: The “Heavy Metal” Advantage
Analysis: The entry of AirX into the domestic Saudi market signals a maturing of the region’s private aviation sector. While smaller jets are sufficient for short hops in Europe, the Saudi market is unique. The distances can be substantial,Riyadh to NEOM is roughly a two-hour flight,but more importantly, the client profile often demands “Head of State” capacity.
AirX’s strategy of utilizing older, refurbished commercial airliners allows them to offer this high-capacity product at a competitive price point compared to operators amortizing brand-new Global 7500s or Gulfstreams. By securing cabotage rights, AirX can now station these large assets inside the Kingdom for extended periods, reducing the “empty leg” costs associated with repositioning aircraft back to Malta or Europe. This efficiency is likely to make their heavy-lift capability highly attractive to government ministries and organizers of the Kingdom’s growing calendar of international sporting and entertainment events.
Regulatory Context and Vision 2030
The approval is not an isolated event but part of a deliberate strategy by GACA to position Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub. Captain Sulaiman bin Saleh Al-Muhaimidi noted that welcoming international operators is intended to enhance competition and service quality. By allowing foreign entities to operate domestically, GACA ensures that the infrastructure required to support tourism and corporate investment is available immediately, rather than waiting for domestic operators to build up fleet capacity.
“Welcoming new international operators such as AirX enhances competition, strengthens service quality, and ensures adherence to the highest international aviation safety standards.”
, Captain Sulaiman bin Saleh Al-Muhaimidi, GACA EVP
This development follows AirX’s financial maneuvering in late 2025, where the company secured approximately $136 million in bond funding to support fleet expansion, specifically eyeing growth in the Middle East. The successful acquisition of the Part 129 certificate validates that investment strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GACAR Part 129?
GACAR Part 129 is a regulation by the General Authority of Civil Aviation in Saudi Arabia that governs the operations of foreign air carriers. Obtaining this authorization allows a non-Saudi airline to operate within the Kingdom’s airspace under specific safety and operational guidelines.
What are cabotage rights?
Cabotage rights refer to the permission for a foreign carrier to transport passengers or cargo between two domestic points within another country. Without these rights, a foreign jet could fly London-Riyadh, but not Riyadh-Jeddah.
Which aircraft will AirX operate in Saudi Arabia?
While specific deployments may vary, AirX’s authorization covers its fleet, which includes heavy jets and VIP airliners like the Airbus A340, Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), and Embraer Lineage 1000.
Sources
Photo Credit: AirX Charter
Business Aviation
Thrive Aviation Launches Fractional Program with Honda Subsidiary
Thrive Aviation partners with Honda Aircraft Company subsidiary Arulean Air to launch a fractional jet ownership program.
Las Vegas-based Thrive Aviation has secured a minority investment from Honda Aircraft Company subsidiary Arulean Air to launch a new fractional aircraft ownership program. The Partnerships, announced on September 2, 2026, positions Arulean Air as the aircraft acquisition arm while Thrive Aviation will manage flight operations, program logistics, and client relations.
The collaboration marks a significant expansion for Thrive Aviation, which ranked as the 12th-largest private aircraft operator in the United States in 2025 based on charter and fractional hours, according to ARGUS Traqpak data reported by Forbes. In a press release issued today, Thrive Aviation indicated that full program details will be unveiled at the National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas from October 20 to 22, 2026.
Fleet expansion and aircraft acquisition
Under the new structure, Arulean Air will purchase the aircraft for the fractional fleet. Thrive Aviation currently operates a fleet of 30 aircraft and plans to scale its offerings significantly through this joint effort.
The initial fractional fleet growth will focus on two specific aircraft types. The companies anticipate adding four to six HondaJet HA-420 light jets and two to four Bombardier Challenger 3500 super-midsize jets to the program annually.
Thrive Aviation Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Curtis Edenfield stated that the partnership provides the foundation to build the program at scale alongside an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) subsidiary.
“Adding fractional ownership opportunities enables Thrive Aviation to serve a broad spectrum of clients throughout their entire private aviation journey, from private charters to fractional ownership to full ownership,” Edenfield said in the release.
Edenfield noted that the company intends to evolve alongside its clients’ aviation needs, describing the fractional program as a major piece of the Thrive platform designed for long-term scaling.
Strategic alignment with Honda Aircraft Company
The involvement of Arulean Air represents a direct link between an OEM and a charter operator. By utilizing a subsidiary to invest in Thrive Aviation, Honda Aircraft Company secures a dedicated operating partner for its products in the competitive fractional ownership market.
The relationship between the two entities extends beyond the current HondaJet HA-420 production model. Forbes reported that Thrive Aviation holds a Letter of Intent for the HondaJet Echelon, a long-range light jet currently under development by Honda Aircraft Company and projected to enter commercial service in 2028 or 2029.
AirPro News analysis
We view this minority investment as a calculated move by Honda Aircraft Company to guarantee placement and operational utilization of its airframes. As the fractional ownership market continues to consolidate around a few dominant players, OEMs are increasingly looking for ways to ensure their aircraft remain competitive options for fleet buyers. By backing Thrive Aviation, Honda creates a reliable pipeline for both the HA-420 and the upcoming Echelon, while Thrive gains the financial backing and fleet acquisition power necessary to compete with larger, established fractional operators.
Sources: Thrive Aviation
Photo Credit: Thrive Aviation
Business Aviation
Bell 407GXi and 505 Showcased at Salon Prive Concours
Bell Textron exhibits the 407GXi and 505 at Blenheim Palace, targeting VIP buyers after the 505 hits 700 deliveries.
Bell Textron Inc. is targeting the European luxury and corporate travel market by showcasing its Bell 407GXi Designer Series and Bell 505 helicopters at the Salon Privé Concours in Oxfordshire, England.
In a press release issued on September 3, 2026, the manufacturer announced its static display at Blenheim Palace, an exclusive automotive and lifestyle event expected to draw 30,000 guests. The exhibition highlights Bell’s strategy to market its VIP configurations directly to high-net-worth demographics outside of traditional aerospace trade shows.
Expanding the UK corporate footprint
The display of the Bell 407GXi follows a recent milestone for the aircraft type in the region. On July 21, 2026, Bell secured its first United Kingdom order for an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)-configured Bell 407GXi. The aircraft was purchased by corporate operator Glyn Jones for regional business travel, establishing a new operational capability for the platform in the UK market.
Robin Wendling, Bell’s Managing Director for Europe, noted that the boutique nature of the brands at Salon Privé aligns with the manufacturer’s VIP focus.
“Showcasing the Bell 505 and the Bell 407GXi at Salon Privé highlights Bell’s position as a leader in VIP and high-end helicopter travel,” Wendling stated.
Bell 505 fleet milestones
Alongside the 407GXi, Bell is exhibiting the Bell 505 light-single helicopter. The aircraft’s appearance at Blenheim Palace comes shortly after the manufacturer celebrated a major production milestone at the Farnborough International Airshow. On July 20, 2026, Bell delivered its 700th Bell 505 to a private VIP operator.
Since entering service in 2017, the Bell 505 fleet has accumulated approximately 390,000 flight hours across more than 55 countries. The aircraft features Garmin avionics and utilizes the proven Bell 206L4 rotor system, positioning it as a popular entry-level turbine option for private ownership.
AirPro News analysis
We view Bell’s presence at Salon Privé as a calculated pivot toward direct-to-consumer marketing for its light helicopter lines. While events like Farnborough and HAI Heli-Expo remain critical for fleet sales and operator relations, automotive concours events place VIP-configured aircraft directly in front of end-users who possess the capital for private ownership. By positioning the 407GXi and 505 alongside luxury automobiles, Bell is framing its rotorcraft not just as utility transport, but as premium lifestyle assets.
Sources: Bell Textron Inc.
Photo Credit: Bell Textron Inc.
Business Aviation
Universal Aviation Opens First Private FBO Terminal in Saudi Arabia
Universal Aviation launched its Dammam GAT and FBO on Sept. 1, 2026, the first dedicated private aviation terminal in Saudi Arabia.
Universal Aviation officially commenced operations at its new General Aviation Terminal (GAT) and fixed-base operator (FBO) facility at King Fahd International Airport (OEDF) in Dammam on September 1, 2026. The launch establishes the first dedicated private aviation terminal and hangar complex in Saudi Arabia.
Announced via a company press release, the opening marks Universal Aviation’s inaugural operational footprint in the Kingdom. The facility’s development was executed in partnership with MATARAT Holding, Dammam Airports Company (DACO), and the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), supporting the broader National Transport and Logistics Strategy under the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.
Facility specifications and operational scope
According to reporting by Aviation International News, the Dammam complex spans 42,000 square feet. This footprint includes a 22,000-square-foot passenger terminal and a 20,000-square-foot climate-controlled hangar designed specifically for business Commercial-Aircraft.
Prior to the September 1 launch, Universal Aviation secured its GACAR Part 151 certification, the mandatory ground service provider credential issued by GACA. The regulatory authority formally granted the ground handling license on July 26, 2026. This was followed by a final operational readiness review conducted alongside DACO on August 24, 2026, to verify the facility’s preparedness for live traffic.
“Bringing the new Dammam GAT to operational readiness required a tremendous amount of coordination across facility development, staffing, training, equipment, safety systems, regulatory approvals, and operating procedures,” said John Hewett, Global Vice President of Universal Aviation.
Hewett noted that the operation is structured to support clients with proactive communication and coordinated logistics through every stage of a mission, beginning well before an aircraft arrives on the ramp.
Strategic expansion in Saudi Arabia
The Dammam facility represents the first phase of a broader expansion strategy within the country. Universal Aviation plans to operate a total of three locations across Saudi Arabia, with future sites slated for Jeddah and Riyadh.
The upcoming Jeddah location will feature a planned 108,000-square-foot private aviation hangar, significantly expanding the company’s physical infrastructure and aircraft storage capacity in the region.
“Today’s opening is an important milestone, but it is only the beginning of our long-term vision for Saudi Arabia,” said Greg Evans, Managing Principal of the Evans Family Office. “We are committed to investing in the Kingdom, developing Saudi talent, and helping elevate business aviation service standards.”
AirPro News analysis
We view Universal Aviation’s entry into Saudi Arabia as a critical step in maturing the region’s business aviation infrastructure. Historically, business jet operators in the Kingdom have often relied on shared or retrofitted commercial Airports facilities. By introducing purpose-built, climate-controlled hangars and dedicated FBO terminals, Saudi Arabia is aligning its ground handling capabilities with the expectations of international corporate flight departments. This development directly supports the Vision 2030 mandate to increase foreign Investments and tourism by removing logistical friction for high-net-worth and corporate travelers.
Sources: Universal Aviation
Photo Credit: Universal Aviation
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