SAL Saudi Logistics Services (SAL) and Menzies Aviation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop a comprehensive study on delivering best-in-class passenger handling services for low-cost carriers (LCCs) at Saudi Arabian airports.

Under the MoU, Menzies Aviation and SAL will work together to explore the potential of providing passenger handling services for LCCs at Saudi airports with the aim of implementing industry best practices to improve passenger services and enhance the efficiency of operations. The move will also support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 targets, associated with upgrading and developing airport services to be on par with the world’s leading and most advanced international airports.

SAL is the market-leading air cargo handler in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and recently obtained a license to provide ground handling services in Saudi airports from the General Authority of Civil Aviation.

Emphasizing the importance of the agreement with Menzies Aviation, Faisal AlBedah, SAL managing director and CEO, stated: “This MoU will enable SAL to utilise Menzies Aviation’s global capabilities and expertise. It is also aligned with our ambitious vision to become the logistics champion for a globally connected Saudi Arabia. We believe the MoU will result in significant improvements in Saudi’s airport services, increasing capacity and enhancing the customer experience and satisfaction, in line with the highest international safety and security standards.”

“Our approach complements the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, in parallel with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 towards welcoming 330 million travellers by 2030.” 

Menzies Aviation is the world’s largest aviation services company with operations at more than 250 airports in 58 countries. It provides ground services, fuel services and air cargo services.

Philipp Joeinig, Menzies Aviation CEO, said“This collaboration has huge potential not only for our businesses but for the country’s aviation industry more broadly, as the Saudi 2030 vision aims to increase passenger numbers significantly by the end of this decade.

“The agreement strengthens our position and relationships in the Middle East, which is a key market for Menzies Aviation as we look to accelerate our growth and bring the highest standards of aviation services to countries all over the world.”

In August last year, Kuwait-based Agility Public Warehousing Company completed the acquisition of UK-based airport services firm Menzies Aviation in a deal valued at about $693.6m (£571m) on a fully diluted basis.