AirX, a Malta-based private aviation operator, has announced its strategic expansion into Saudi Arabia following approval from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The company, which maintains a strong presence across Europe and the Middle East, is entering the Kingdom with support from AstroLabs, the Gulf’s leading business expansion platform.
With its expansion, AirX is poised to enhance its private jet charter operations and expand its aircraft presence within the Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing private aviation sector.
Regarding the company’s Saudi expansion, Houssam Hazzoury, Group CEO of AirX, said: “Saudi Arabia represents one of the most strategic and dynamic aviation markets globally. With Vision 2030 driving unprecedented growth in tourism, investment, and international engagement, we see a clear opportunity to support the Kingdom’s premium private aviation sector with world-class long-range aircraft capability, safety standards, and service excellence.”
He added: “Receiving GACA approval marks a major milestone for AirX. It enables us to deepen our operational presence in Saudi Arabia, expand aircraft availability within the Kingdom, and provide corporate, VIP, and governmental clients with reliable, premium private jet charter services aligned with the Kingdom’s ambitious aviation transformation.”
In recent years, the business travel sector in Saudi Arabia has seen exponential growth, fueled by Vision 2030’s transformative projects, the rising trend of corporate headquarters relocations, and substantial investments in aviation infrastructure. Together, these factors have driven unprecedented demand for premium private aviation services.
In 2024, the Kingdom’s business jet sector recorded 23,612 flights—a 24% increase over the previous year. This growth is driven by Saudi Arabia emerging as a global hub for business executives and high-net-worth individuals, with reports suggesting a 700% rise in millionaire relocations to 2,400 in 2025.
With increasing numbers of global investors and companies relocating to Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s private aviation sector is poised to reach $2 billion by the end of the decade.
Commenting on the announcement, Fouad Fattal, Vice President, Commercial, at AstroLabs, said: “AirX’s expansion comes at a pivotal time as Saudi Arabia consolidates its position as a global aviation and tourism hub. As more businesses and high-net-worth individuals relocate to the Kingdom, AirX is positioned to deliver extraordinary flight experiences tailored to diverse business and leisure travelers. With a commitment to operational excellence and world-class service standards, AirX is cementing its status as one of the fastest-growing premium jet operators connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.”
While AirX has been actively serving the Saudi market through international charter activity, GACA approval represents a key step in deepening the company’s operational presence within the Kingdom. AirX operates a diverse fleet of 20 aircraft, including Heavy Jets, Lineage, and widebody VIP capability, enabling the company to meet increasing demand for long-range corporate, governmental, and high-end private travel to and from Saudi Arabia.
As it establishes its presence in the Kingdom, AirX plans to develop partnerships with key stakeholders and contribute to the continued growth of private aviation services across Riyadh, Jeddah, NEOM, and other strategic destinations throughout Saudi Arabia.
About AstroLabs
AstroLabs is the leading business expansion platform in the Gulf, supporting high-growth companies to set up, operate, and achieve full market integration in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
With over a decade of experience and a network of 10,000+ decision-makers, we’ve helped 1,850+ companies successfully enter, scale, and embed themselves within the region’s fastest-growing economies.
In partnership with government entities across Saudi Arabia and key global markets, we run strategic programs that accelerate market access, build foundational industries, and support regional visions like Saudi Vision 2030.
About AirX
Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Malta, AirX operates one of Europe’s largest private jet fleets, supported by over 400 aviation professionals. With MRO facilities at London Stansted and true global operating capability, AirX serves clients across continents with aircraft ranging from midsize jets to large VIP airliners. The company’s fleet of 20 aircraft includes Heavy Jets, Lineage, and widebody VIP capability, delivering world-class safety standards and service excellence to corporate, governmental, and VIP clients worldwide.
