The United States and Saudi Arabia have taken a significant step to deepen their civil aviation partnership by finalizing negotiations on a Protocol of Amendment to their 2013 Air Transport Agreement, reads a statement.
The Amendment, signed by the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Transportation Affairs Heidi Gómez and Saudi Executive Vice President of Air Transport and International Cooperation Ali bin Mohammed Rajab, occurred at the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Air Services Negotiation Event (ICAN2024) in Malaysia.
According to the statement, the Amendment introduces seventh-freedom traffic rights for all-cargo operations, allowing U.S. airlines to transport cargo between Saudi Arabia and other countries without requiring a stop in the United States. Saudi carriers will enjoy reciprocal rights, enabling them to expand their service reach to the U.S. without an intermediate stop.
The new provision aims to prop up the movement of goods worldwide, giving air carriers more flexibility to meet growing demands in cargo and express delivery services. Officials from both countries anticipate that these expanded rights will further strengthen the economic and commercial ties between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, enhancing efficiency for businesses and supporting cargo hub operations.
This latest Amendment brings out the commitment of both nations to facilitate international trade and cooperation through robust aviation ties.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
