Saudia Renews IOSA Certification Under New Risk-Based Audit

Saudia, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has renewed its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification under the newly introduced Risk-Based IATA Operational Safety Audit (RBI) framework — a first for the airline and a significant step in global aviation safety oversight.

This achievement marks Saudia’s 11th consecutive IOSA registration, underscoring its unwavering commitment to operational excellence and safety. The RBI framework represents an evolution in IATA’s audit methodology, shifting from a standard checklist approach to one that focuses on airline-specific risk profiles and performance data. This allows for a more targeted, predictive, and efficient assessment of safety management and operational practices.

Capt Mohamed Dahduli, Vice President of Safety, Aviation Security & Quality at Saudia, stated, “Safety is at the core of everything we do at Saudia. Renewing our IOSA registration once again reflects the strength of our safety culture and the robustness of our operational systems. It’s a proud moment that highlights the dedication of our teams and our ongoing commitment to meeting and exceeding global aviation standards”. 

The comprehensive audit evaluated Saudia’s performance across eight critical domains — Organisation Management, Aviation Security, Flight Operations, Flight Dispatch, In-Flight Services, Maintenance Management, Ground Operations, and Cargo Operations. Passing this audit demonstrates the airline’s strong compliance with international aviation standards and its ability to adapt to new, more data-driven safety protocols.

As Saudia continues to expand its international network and invest in modernising its fleet and operations, the certification further strengthens its position as a trusted global carrier. The successful completion of this new risk-based audit highlights Saudia’s readiness to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving aviation landscape, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in safety, reliability, and operational performance.