The Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed an updated and modernized Air Services Agreement (ASA) on 23 October 2024, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The conclusion on the Agreement serves to complement the signing of the updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Freedom of the Air Traffic Rights that was signed between the two countries in Riyadh earlier this year.
The signing of the Air Services Agreement (ASA) took place during the International Civil Aviation Negotiation 2024 (ICAN2024), held at the Sunway Resort Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 21 to 25 October 2024. Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, signed on behalf of the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, while His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, signed on behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This new agreement, which renews the original Air Services Agreement signed in 1992, reflects the enduring diplomatic ties between Brunei Darussalam and Saudi Arabia, first established on 1 July 1987. The enhanced agreement aims to foster more flexible commercial air transport options, allowing designated airlines from both nations to operate flights to each other's international airports. This agreement also aligns with the latest standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and adheres to the regulatory frameworks of both countries.
Ahead of the signing, Yang Berhormat Minister held a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, where both leaders discussed advancements and challenges in the aviation sector. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing connectivity and bolstering bilateral relations through air transport. Both parties recognized that direct flight services significantly enhance tourism, underscoring the need for alignment with airport capacities, infrastructure, and facilities.
Yang Berhormat Minister also held a separate bilateral meeting with Ms. Yuli Thompson, Regional Manager for Southeast Asia at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), based in Kuala Lumpur. Their discussions centered around the implementation of electronic cargo air waybills, the promotion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel production, and visa policies to encourage tourism to Brunei Darussalam.
Throughout ICAN2024, Brunei Darussalam's delegation actively sought opportunities to negotiate air service agreements that support global aviation standards and advance the liberalization of air transport. With 40 bilateral Air Service Agreements already in place, Brunei Darussalam continues to fortify its aviation network that enables international air connectivity, which is a critical driver for tourism, trade, and economic growth. This is aligned with the nation's aim of becoming a regional air travel hub, enhancing its appeal to international visitors and businesses.
Prepared by:
Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications
Brunei Darussalam
E-mel: info@mtic.gov.bn