The institutional performance indicators of the General Authority of Civil Aviation during 2025 showed a full compliance rate (100%) with the timeline set for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, known as “CORSIA.” These indicators contributed to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by updating the fleet of national carriers, improving operational efficiency, and increasing the load factor of flights.

Reduction rate compared to the expected scenario

The authority explained, on the occasion of World Environment Day, that the indicators recorded a 16.3% decrease in emissions compared to the expected business-as-usual scenario for the same year. This reduction was supported by the introduction of more than 14 modern aircraft into the fleets of national carriers, as well as an improvement in the load factor, which rose from 148 to 155 passengers per flight movement.

Qualitative achievements in 2025

The year 2025 witnessed a number of qualitative achievements in this field, most notably enhancing compliance with international standards for environmental protection in the aviation sector. This was achieved through the integration of environmental compliance indicators with the national safety program, adopting modern regulatory frameworks that included an advanced air mobility roadmap, and implementing strategic initiatives to improve airspace and resource efficiency.

Sustainability program and commitment to “CORSIA”

The authority continued to implement the environmental sustainability program for civil aviation and the national plan to reduce emissions, while adhering to the requirements of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation “CORSIA.” This plan is one of the leading global initiatives of the International Civil Aviation Organization “ICAO” to reduce carbon emissions resulting from international air transport.

The authority’s role in building a sustainable system

These efforts are an extension of the role played by the General Authority of Civil Aviation in building a safe and sustainable civil aviation system that supports economic growth and enhances the kingdom’s global air connectivity, while preserving the environment and achieving national and international sustainability goals. This solidifies the kingdom’s position as a leading model in developing an advanced and sustainable aviation sector.

Civil Aviation Authority

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is a government agency responsible for regulating and overseeing civil aviation, including air safety, airport operations, and pilot licensing. Its modern form emerged in many countries during the mid-20th century, following the rapid expansion of commercial air travel after World War II, to ensure standardized safety and operational rules. The CAA’s history reflects the growing need for centralized oversight as aviation evolved from a niche activity to a global transportation network.

CORSIA

CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation) is a global market-based measure adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 2016 to address carbon emissions from international flights. Its history stems from the aviation industry’s commitment to carbon-neutral growth from 2020 onward, requiring airlines to offset emissions exceeding a baseline level. By allowing carriers to purchase carbon credits from approved projects, CORSIA aims to reduce the sector’s environmental impact while supporting sustainable development.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 1947 to promote the safe, secure, and orderly development of international civil aviation. It was created following the signing of the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation in 1944, which set the foundational standards for global air travel. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, ICAO develops policies, standards, and regulations that are essential for coordinating air navigation and ensuring the efficiency of the world’s aviation network.