Kingdom has approved a strategy to develop its civil aviation industry and create a favorable investment environment JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia is hosting two important international aviation meetings to improve air traffic management, further establishing its role in the global air travel sector. Starting on Oct. 20, the Saudi Air Navigation Services Co. is conducting the 13th meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organization Middle East Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance Sub-Group, alongside the 10th meeting of ICAO’s Air Traffic Management Working Group in Jeddah. This is the first time both meetings are held simultaneously, with sessions running until Oct. 23, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The Kingdom has approved a strategy to develop its civil aviation industry and create a favorable investment environment. The initiative seeks to position Saudi Arabia as a leading player in the Middle East aviation sector, enhance its contribution to the gross domestic product, and support the goals of Vision 2030. The strategy focuses on transforming the Kingdom into a logistical hub connecting three continents and facilitating air transport and freight. Around 80 participants from 18 countries attended the meetings, including representatives from the International Air Transport Association, ICAO, and PCCW Global, with oversight from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation. The inaugural meeting of the Flight and Flow Information for a Collaborative Environment working group is taking place under the Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, to discuss developments and practical solutions in the aviation sector. The meetings also coincide with International Air Traffic Controllers Day, which recognizes the crucial role of air traffic controllers in maintaining safe airspace.