RIYADH, 21 April 2006 — The cornerstone to Saudi Arabia’s first private aviation school was laid yesterday at Thumama Airport, just to the north of Riyadh. Riyadh Governor Prince Salman laid the cornerstone of the new flight academy. He was accompanied on an inspection of the plans of the school by Prince Sultan Bin Salman, secretary general of the Supreme Commission for Tourism, who initiated the idea of the academy. The opening was held in the presence of a large invited audience of ministers and guests from Riyadh’s diplomatic community.

“The club is not being set up for profit,” he said, “but to encourage people to take up and practice private flying.” The club is looking to the private sector for support in helping develop many activities that have the potential to develop into a profitable tourist attraction.

Already two provinces have made inquiries about holding air displays and establishing interest in private aviation to encourage young people. However, no decision can be made until the prime concern of safety of the public has been addressed. “Safety is our first consideration,” he said.

Prince Sultan told Arab News that the aviation club had been working closely with security and air traffic control organizations to allow members of the public to qualify from the school and fly over Saudi Arabia. “We have been discussing practical areas such as security, air corridors etc. to allow safe flying,” he said.

Asked when private flying would be possible if applicants to the club already held a private pilot’s license, he said it could be a soon as three months from now.

Prince Sultan also said that even though the school would not be finished, classes would start soon in the existing buildings and move to the new complex when it was ready.

The shift in regulations to allow members of the public to fly was confirmed by Emad Shaker, chief executive director of the Saudi Aviation Club. “Members of the public will be welcome to train here and fly,” he said.

In his speech to the guests, Prince Sultan thanked The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, Crown Prince Sultan and Prince Salman for their firm support of the project.

“We are very grateful of as well for the support from the Saudi Royal Air Force and the Civil Aviation Authority, which is a complete partner,” the prince added.

Applications to join the club can be sent via the club’s website at www.sac.com.