US carrier Delta Air Lines has been granted a Foreign Air Operator Authorization by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) under Part 129 of the aviation safety executive regulation, opening the way for scheduled direct flights between Atlanta and Riyadh.

GACA said the step is part of its work to strengthen the Kingdom's international air links and allow global airlines into the Saudi market. It aims to boost competitiveness in aviation, widen connections with international markets and destinations, and support tourism, business and investment, in line with the Aviation Program and Saudi Vision 2030.