Statistics show record growth in passenger and cargo traffic in 2011 at King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA). The report issued by the airport authorities showed that the traffic had increased by 10.2 percent in 2011 when compared to that of 2010. A total of 15.3 million passengers traveled in 2011 as opposed to 13.9 million in 2010. About 7.4 million traveled on international flights – an increase of 11.6 percent, while 7.8 million flew on domestic flights – an increase of 9 percent. The report said the total cargo shipped in 2011 crossed 257,000 tons when compared to the 236,000 tons shipped in 2010. Abdullah Bin Muhammad Al-Tassan, Director General of KAIA, said the growth in traffic will continue because of the large development projects being carried out at the facility. Moreover, the airport's improved accommodation capacity has made it an attractive destination for more flights and the use of bigger planes. He said efforts are being made to accelerate the work on the fifth passengers' terminal which will further increase the airport's capacity.
