Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) has once again claimed the top spot as the world’s most punctual airport, recording a 90.41% on-time performance rate for June 2025. This marks the third time this year that the Saudi capital’s airport has been ranked first globally by aviation analytics firm Cirium. The recognition further cements KKIA’s growing reputation as a reliable and efficient hub—not just in the Middle East, but on the world stage.
A hat-trick for Riyadh in 2025
KKIA previously earned the same distinction in March and April, also topping Cirium’s monthly global rankings. The June report confirms the airport’s consistent performance and operational discipline throughout the year. Managed and operated by Riyadh Airports Company, KKIA is one of the key pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading aviation and logistics hub. The airport’s continuous improvements in efficiency and service delivery are now being recognised globally.
Cirium’s monthly reports are based on comprehensive data from airlines, air traffic control systems, and airport feeds. The rankings reflect the percentage of flights that depart or arrive within 15 minutes of their scheduled time—a standard measure of punctuality in the industry. By scoring 90.41% in June, KKIA not only beat out other regional competitors but also outperformed major global hubs, offering travellers a more predictable and seamless experience.
A broader win for Saudi aviation
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in aviation infrastructure over the past decade, and KKIA’s performance highlights how these efforts are bearing fruit. As Riyadh positions itself as a gateway to the region, its top ranking sends a strong signal to airlines and passengers looking for dependable service and efficient operations. Beyond the numbers, this milestone also points to the airport’s role in shaping the passenger journey—from streamlined check-ins and faster boarding to better ground handling and reduced delays.
