| 10 Mar 2010 |
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Saudia's privatization plan on course, says director general
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JEDDAH: The privatization of Saudi Arabian AirlinesSaudi Arabian Airlines
is progressing as planned, its director general has said. Khaled Al-Molhem added that the organization's core aviation unit could be privatized within 24 months.Speaking to reporters after signing a memorandum of understanding with Al-Ahli Capital and Morgan Stanley, who will act as financial advisers for the airline's privatization, he indicated that the airline would sell part of its stake in the core aviation unit to a consortium of national companies.
Al-Molhem, who oversaw the privatization of the Saudi Telecom Company (STC) before joining SaudiaSaudia, said technical procedures to privatize the airline would be much easier this time round.
He said the privatization of the organization's catering and cargo units was successful. A consortium comprising Abdul Mohsen Al-Hokair Tourism and Development and the Fowzan Holding and Newrest Group bought 49 percent of SaudiaSaudia Catering, while Tarabut Air Freight Services bought 30 percent of SaudiaSaudia Cargo.
"The financial consultants will set up the basis for the airline's privatization within the next 24 months," Al-Molhem said, adding that the transfer of employees from the public to the private sector would be completed as per the plan.
He expected the privatization of the maintenance service unit to be completed by the beginning of next year at the latest.
"Our privatization plan is going ahead successfully as planned," he added.
The airline had signed an agreement with BNP ParibasBNP Paribas, who will act as adviser for the privatization of the technical service unit.
There are more than 5,600 employees in the maintenance sector, with Saudis accounting for 87 percent. They are distributed among 26 domestic and 30 international stations.
Economic observers believe that the privatization of SaudiaSaudia's core aviation unit would not take a long time.
The new aircraft deal was self-financed for the first time and reflects the airline's financial strength. The purchase includes 58 Airbus planes and 12 Boeing 787s.
Saudi Airlines, which was established about 60 years ago, has played a significant role in the Kingdom's development and connecting the country with other parts of the world.
The airline operates flights to 80 domestic and international destinations, and transports more than 18 million passengers, including a large number of pilgrims, annually.
The airline's cargo unit posted revenues of SR1.7 billion in 2007 and a net profit of SR307 million. The result encouraged companies to buy 30 percent of SaudiaSaudia Cargo's stake.
SaudiaSaudia, which has a fleet of more than 100 aircraft, employs more than 18,000 people.
By P.K. ABDUL GHAFOUR
© Arab News 2010
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