Saudi low-cost carrier flynas has begun construction of an advanced aviation training centre in Riyadh, with an estimated investment of more than SAR200 million ($54 million), as it strengthens its training capabilities and supports the development of national talent in the aviation sector.

The centre, being developed in collaboration with global and local companies including Airbus, CAE and Restart, is scheduled to open in 2028.

It will cover approximately 13,000 square meters in Riyadh’s Al Rimal district, less than 10 minutes from King Khalid International Airport.

The facility will have capacity to train around 700 people daily, providing integrated training for pilots and cabin crew in line with international aviation standards and the airline’s expanding operational requirements.

The first phase will include three advanced flight simulators, while the center is designed to accommodate eight simulators, with expansion capacity for up to 14.

It will also feature facilities for practical safety and service training.

Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas, said: “The training centre reaffirms flynas’ commitment to investing in the development of national talent for specialized roles in the aviation sector, in parallel with our ambitious growth and expansion strategy, as well as our contribution to achieving national targets through qualified Saudi talent.”

He added: “Investing in training infrastructure and the continuous development of national talent is a key pillar in keeping pace with the rapid growth of the Kingdom’s aviation sector and enhancing the readiness of Saudi professionals to take on the specialized roles required by the sector’s future.”

flynas said the centre will strengthen its in-house training capabilities, improve efficiency and quality, reduce reliance on external providers and lower training costs.

The project is expected to generate sustainable savings while supporting the airline’s operational readiness and long-term expansion plans. -TradeArabia News Service