Saudi Arabian Airlines and GE Aviation criticise GACA over Jeddah airport

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAA) criticised the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) for a breakdown in systems and poor organisation at Jeddah King Abdul Aziz International Airport, which has caused lengthy delays during the Umrah period (The Saudi Gazette, 19-Sep-2010). The carrier called for an urgent intervention into the issue to prevent a "complete collapse" of the airport's systems. In addition to issues with the airport's baggage handling, security and check-in systems, SAA also raised concerns regarding cargo, reservations, air-conditioning, cleaning, aircraft parking and sound systems. GACA responded stating it needs more time to reply to the carrier's allegations. GE Aviation also criticised GACA's management of the airport, stating GACA did not respond to their demands for necessary machinery, mechanisms and suitable infrastructure to allow to the airport to operate effectively.