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Mar. 9--JEDDAH -- The privatization of Saudi 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 Saudia, 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 Saudia Catering, while Tarabut Air Freight Services bought 30 percent of Saudia 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 Paribas, who will act as adviser for the privatization of the technical service unit.