LONDON- On June 1st, 2023, Saudia (SV), the national airline of Saudi Arabia, launched a new flight that connects London Gatwick (LGW) with Jeddah (JED), Saudi Arabia.
This newly established link between the two cities is anticipated to impact South East businesses substantially. Further, It will enable easier and more convenient trade with Saudi Arabia, which is recognized as the top trading partner for the region.
Saudia Jeddah to London Flight
From April 2022 to March 2023, businesses in Sussex, Surrey, and Kent exported 17% of their goods and services to Saudi Arabia, surpassing all other destinations. The main exports included manufacturing and engineering goods, bio-life sciences, and pharmaceutical items.
The introduction of the new Saudia route will further enhance these trade volumes. Subsequently, it will contribute to the growth of employment in the region.
Most of the cargo at Gatwick Airport will be transported in the cargo holds of long-haul passenger flights, supporting the movement of goods.
Initially, the service will operate six times per week. Starting in August, it will be available daily, increasing the frequency and accessibility of trade between the two regions.
Moreover, the potential utilization of Gatwick’s Northern Runway regularly is expected to boost cargo volumes significantly. This development will further support local businesses and job opportunities in the area.
CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=78143987
Executive Comments
According to Jonathan Pollard, the Chief Commercial Officer of London Gatwick, the airport remains committed to introducing new international routes that contribute to job creation and trade expansion. Also, with various opportunities for individuals and businesses in the South East region.
He also highlighted the strategic significance of the new route to Jeddah by Saudia. With Jeddah serving as Saudia’s base, passengers will have seamless access to onward connections to several destinations. Including Pakistan, Malaysia, India, and Bangladesh, further enhancing travel options and connectivity.
According to Ana Christie, the Chief Executive of the Sussex Chamber of Commerce, the chamber is thrilled with the news of Gatwick Airport expanding its routes to Saudi Arabia.
She emphasized that Saudi Arabia is an important export market for Sussex businesses. Further, it encompasses various sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, bio-life sciences, and pharmaceuticals.
The chamber is vital in providing essential trade documentation for numerous businesses. Particularly those involved in exporting to the Middle East.
Christie further stated that the new route at London Gatwick would enable businesses to strengthen their trade relations. Additionally, explore new opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and attract regional investments. This, in turn, will foster economic growth and prosperity in the area.
CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30952724
Bottom Line
London Gatwick presently offers flights to 45 long-haul destinations. Including the recently launched routes to Jeddah and Washington DC operated by Norse (N0).
Additionally, the airport has plans to introduce new long-haul routes to various destinations in the USA, Asia, and Africa in the coming months.
To secure its long-term growth, London Gatwick is actively preparing a planning application to utilize its Northern Runway for departures alongside the Main Runway.
This carefully designed plan aims to minimize environmental impact while enhancing the airport’s resilience, reducing delays, and providing a substantial economic boost to the region.
The improved infrastructure will support increased trade, tourism, and job creation, ensuring the airport’s and surrounding areas’ prosperous future.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.
