New Al Jouf airport kicks off operations, welcomes debut flight

The new Al Jouf International Airport officially began operations today (February 26), receiving its first flight thus marking the complete transfer of operational activities from the old airport to the new facility, reported SPA. 

Affiliated with the Second Airports Cluster, this new airport has an estimated annual capacity of 1.6 million passengers, compared to 175,000 at the previous airport, representing a growth of more than 800%.

The first aircraft to land at the Al Jouf International Airport belonged to the national carrier Saudia, which was welcomed with a ceremonial water canon salute as it taxied to the terminal.

The passenger terminal, which covers a total area of 24,000 sq m, has been designed in accordance with the latest international standards, it stated. 

The newly-opened facility includes 16 check-in counters, two of which are designated for self-service, 11 departure and arrival gates, five dual passport control counters, 648 parking spaces, and a variety of integrated facilities and services.

A key highlight of the Airport is the establishment of sensory rooms dedicated to travellers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as those people with disabilities and similar conditions who are in need of urgent services, said the SPA report. 

In addition, it offers commercial spaces totaling 1,700 sq m reflecting a commitment to providing an inclusive travel environment that meets the needs of all passengers.

The terminal’s design incorporates elements inspired by Al Jouf Region's heritage. It includes 5,000 sq m of green spaces adorned with olive trees, for which the region is well known, it added.