By Sim YH –
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, 25 OCT – The Government of His Majesty the Sultan and the Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Government of Saudi Arabia have signed an updated and modernized agreement, the Air Services Agreement (ASA) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last October 23.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), here, stating that the conclusion of the agreement serves as a complement to the signing of the updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Rights of Freedom of Air Traffic that has been signed by both countries in Riyadh earlier this year.
The signing of the ASA was held at International Civil Aviation Negotiations 2024 (ICAN2024) which took place at the Sunway Resort Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from October 21 to 25.
The Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, His Excellency Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha signed the agreement on behalf of His Majesty’s government, while the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej signed on behalf of the government of Saudi Arabia.
The enhanced agreement, aimed at fostering more flexible commercial air transport options, allows designated airlines from both countries to operate flights to their respective international airports.
The agreement is in line with the latest standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and complies with the regulatory framework of both countries.
Earlier before the signing, Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary held a bilateral meeting with Abdulaziz, discussing developments and challenges in the aviation sector.
Both parties recognize that direct air services significantly increase tourism, underlining the need for coordination with airport facilities, infrastructure and capabilities.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato also held a separate bilateral meeting with the Regional Manager for Southeast Asia at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Yuli Thompson who is based in Kuala Lumpur. Their discussion centered around implementation electronic cargo air waybillspromote production Sustainable Aviation Fuel and visa policies to promote 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 air transport liberalization.
With 40 bilateral ASAs already in place, Brunei Darussalam continues to strengthen its aviation network enabling international air connectivity, which is a critical driver of tourism, trade and economic growth.
It is in line with the country’s aim to become a regional air travel hub, increasing its attraction to international businesses and visitors.